HOW TO SAY NO TO HOLIDAY FOOD PUSHERS
For those of us with health in mind, Christmas can be a challenge. This challenge can stem from internal thoughts, the sights, smells, and all too often, the people.
Yes, the people – your relative with the extra serve of pavlova just for you, or your well-meaning parents who dish you up a pile of potato ‘salad’. Before you know it, your carefully thought-out plan for eating healthy is out the window.
So, how do you be assertive of your right to eat healthy, and respond appropriately?
Lifeshape Clinic dietitian Nicola Moore has compiled a list of easy, polite ways to say ‘no’ and stick to your plan:
"Oh, thank you for thinking of me Nan. That Pavlova looks amazing, but I am still feeling full from lunch, so I will wait a little while before I take some."
"I love your potato salad Mum, and I bet it tastes extra delicious today. Would you be able to save me a portion, so I can eat it tomorrow when I am not as hungry and can truly savour it?"
"Oh thank-you for offering, but I’ve prepared some of my own dips and fruit salad that I would prefer to start with. You are welcome to have some."
"No mate, I am right with my soda water and lime at the moment. Thank you for offering. I will let you know if I’d like a drink later."
"Thank you so much! Would you mind if I saved this for later?" Or, "would you mind if I saved this for my son? He loves these cookies!" "The DESC model provides a guide for assertive behaviour, specifically when asking another person to make changes," says Nicola.
"Describe the behaviour, explain what the effect it is having on you, specify what you would like, and explain what the consequences will be for you."
So, there you have it! Some very practical advice on how to handle to food pushers this Christmas. For more information, contact Lifeshape Clinic on 1800 567 348 or visit www.lifeshape.com.au