Food pushers don’t mean to be saboteurs. Losing weight or changing eating habits is hard enough without well intentioned food pushers insisting you try their grandmother’s award winning apple pie. Birthday parties, baby/wedding showers, holidays, picnics, family get-togethers, graduation/retirements parties… the list is exhausting and endless. Additionally, I hear from many people who say their downfall is the food (usually treats) that co-workers bring into work.
I love parties but the food is typically not low calorie food. And it’s hard to say no and not offend anyone, so here are a few methods to try in order to politely say “no” to food pushers whether at work or at a party.
Food Pusher: “You HAVE to try this – it’s so good!”
You: “I’ll try some later, I have to do ____ first. “
Technique: Delay. Usually this person will forget by the time they’ve seen you again or assume that you’ve had some.
Food Pusher: “Here, I put a piece of _____ on a plate for you!”
You: “Oh thanks, but you shouldn’t have!”
Technique: Take and Toss. Maybe take a small bite or push it around your plate. Then discretely toss it. Better to be wasteful than waist-ful, I always say.
Food Pusher: “Have you tried the special treat I brought in? It took me all night to bake!”
You: “I’m not a big fan of/can’t eat ____, but it looks delicious – I wish I could!”
Technique: White Lie. While I’m not a fan of lying, necessarily, this isn’t REALLY a lie. I’m sure it DOES look delicious and you technically can’t eat it unless it’s part of your meal plan…
Food Pusher: “Are you obsessed with dieting or something?”
You: “No, I’m just trying to be really mindful of what I’m eating right now to reach certain goals, but thank you for the offer.”
Technique: Truth. Sometimes the food pusher is a little rude, most likely because he/she can’t imagine why you don’t want to try their special treat or feels a little guilty themselves for indulging.
Food Pusher: “Here, I’ll put some in a container for you to take home!”
You: “Oh, no, you keep it – you threw a great party and you shouldn’t have to cook for awhile!”
Technique: Flip-Flop. Look at you, so generous, not taking home food so the host can keep it.
Food Pusher: “Please try this or take some home! I don’t want to eat it – I’m on a diet – I just love to bake!”
You: “Oh, my gosh, thank you but I have so much at home already. I don’t have room in my fridge/freezer for more treats!”
Technique: Too full. Because your freezer is full of vegetables and other good treats, right? Some people grew up in families where food was love. Plus, some people just love baking as a hobby.
Before getting frustrated or angry, just remember that most people don’t have bad intentions. Learning how to politely decline will help you keep on track and reach your goals sooner. If you do happen to indulge in something that maybe you shouldn’t have, it’s not the end of the world. Cut back on calories somewhere else or do a little more exercise to compensate. It will be ok, just don’t make a habit of it, right?
What do you use as techniques to counteract food pushers?