Today's Tip: Identify Your Diet Derailers!

Many of you have shared with me that u have committed to a healthier eating plan recently. You are eating more vegetables, making better choices with your snacks, and choosing wisely when you eat out. Unfortunately when we start making good choices in our lives, often times someone comes along & tries to derail our healthy eating plan. For instance, your mom or spouse loves cooking for you so you feel obligated to eat those fully leaded scalloped potatoes. You feel led to eat unhealthy foods even when you're not hungry just because someone brought them and you don't want to hurt their feelings.

 

For instance, your sister shows her love through food and makes a huge spread when you are there.  She pushes treats on you, even though you have even started bringing your own healthy snacks when you visit her. If it continues to be a problem, you might try a direct approach and ask say, "I love you, but would you try and force a glass of wine on me if I were in A.A.?'" The food might still be there the next time you visit, but perhaps she won't push like she used to.

This direct approach might not work for some people or in some families.  For many women, it's not okay to disappoint, which is why family gatherings can be stressful. The thinking goes like this: Your mom went to all that trouble to cook for you, so the least you can do is enjoy the meal. The pressure for you to give in can be intense, particularly if you have a make-everyone-happy personality! In fact, people pleasers are more likely to eat fatty snacks, even when they're not hungry, if they think doing so will make the person they're with more comfortable.  Try thinking of it this way...how much will your mom will benefit from seeing you eat those cheesy potatoes versus how much will it cost you? In addition to the calories, a big helping could trigger a downward spiral by making you feel mentally defeated and less motivated to exercise. 

To soften the blow, tell your mom, sis, or aunt about your new goals in advance of when you typically get together. Give the person a call and say, "I know you enjoy cooking for me, but I'm trying to lose weight and I need your support. It may take time for this reality to set in, but eventually it will.  You can also try this: on the day of the gathering, be nonchalant if someone challenges your food choices. Try saying, "You know, this is just what I feel like eating today." 

Stick with your plan. You can do it...and enlisting others' help just might jump-start their healthier eating plan too!