Let’s face it, the holidays often revolve around activities and gatherings that include food. It can be difficult for those of us who are trying to make smarter, healthier food choices to be in environments where unhealthy sweets and treats are everywhere, especially when people we love are the ones offering us these foods.
Family food pushers are even trickier to deal with than co-workers or friends. Luckily, there are ways to avoid giving in to food pushers without causing offense.
5 Tips to Politely Decline Well-Meaning Family Food Pushers
- Stall: If someone asks, or demands, that you try a dish, tell them you look forward to trying it later on. Chances are, this person is not going to follow you around waiting for you to try their dish.
- Say “thank you” without saying yes: An enthusiastic “Thank you, it looks delicious” or “How thoughtful of you to make this for me, thank you” can show appreciation for food offered by family without actually committing to eating it right then and there.
- Redirect: If someone is making comments about your food choices, change the subject and redirect the attention onto that person by asking them questions about their own life, specifically ones that have nothing to do with food.
- Be honest: Sometimes a firm and simple “No, thank you” will do the trick. Further explanation of why you are saying no gives the food pusher more opportunity to argue against your decision to decline. Be consistent in your nos, and most people will get the message.
- Ask for food “to-go”: If a food pusher really will not leave you alone, compromise by asking for them to wrap up the food for you to take home. This way, you are not saying no, you are saying “I will enjoy this so much more tomorrow when I am not full”.
You Might Also Enjoy:
Stress Relief and Mental Health Strategies
How Practicing Gratitude May Benefit Your Health
Don’t miss another great blog: Subscribe Now