Combat Those Food Pushers

Ok y’all, holiday season is rapidly approaching and that’s super exciting (at least to me!). It's an exciting time of the year filled with parties, friends and family, great food and drink. For those of us on a mission to drop weight or get in shape / stay in shape, it comes with many challenges that we’re faced with. The biggest one for most people.

The “Food Pusher” …

You know who this is, every family has at least one. The family member (or friend) who, no matter what you say, is always pressuring you to eat this, drink that, “it won’t hurt”.

The worst part? Food pushing is pretty much a welcomed activity during the holidays. So, instead of giving in, and putting on a quick 5-10 pounds. Go to your holiday parties with a few defenses to stop that food pushing. Common Food Push #1: You HAVE to try this dessert I made!

Best response to combat this food push: “Honestly, I’d love to, but I am completely stuffed right now”

Why this works – Most of the time food pushers won’t keep trying with this response, it’s hard to want to force someone to over eat. Worst case, if they keep trying, just tell them that having one more bit will push you over the edge.  Common Food Push #2: I made your favorite, hand me your plate and I’ll give you some.

Best response: “I’ll certainly try some in a little bit, thank you though”

This is a great one because it lets the food pusher believe that they’ve succeeded with their goal of feeding you, while giving you the ability to try it when and if you feel like it.

Common Food Push #3: “All you’re doing is dieting, take a break today and enjoy yourself”

Best response: “I really appreciate you noticing my healthy changes and the work I’ve been putting in. It’s not easy at all, and your support means a lot”

Commonly a comment like that is said passive aggressively, mainly because the person saying it either doesn't agree or understand why you’re dieting. By not responding with a retaliatory response, and taking it as a compliment you’re firmly planting your feet in the ground and saying “I am dedicated to this diet”. Allowing you to take the high ground in the exchange. There’s a good change your food pusher will back down. Who knows, maybe you’ll inspire them with your confidence!

If you practice now, by the time this holiday season comes by you’ll be fully prepared to combat those food pushers. 

Take control of your holiday eating and don’t ever let the food pushers decide when or what you’re going to be eating. Use the responses above to control the calories that you eat over the season, reduce the stress of food pushers and avoid the common holiday fat gain.  These responses are tools to be used to help you make it through the holidays, but keep in mind that exercise is still super important. Healthy eating is great, but you need to do both if you want to achieve fat loss and fitness. During the holiday season it’s more important than ever to really stick to your routine. 

If you aren’t already one of my clients, I’d love nothing more than to help you on your health and fitness journey. 

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