SparkPeople Sponsors help keep the site free!

Posts: 129
11/16/09 9:44 P

Now I say no thank you not this time and hopefully for me not next time either.

current weight: 155.5

164 157 150 143

136

SparkPoints: (5,967)
Fitness Minutes: (4,494)
Posts: 117
11/16/09 8:17 P

I've gotten pretty good at saying no. There's a woman that's new to our dept that is always bringing in food, doughnuts, candy, bagels. I just keep telling her that I'm not interested.

current weight: 166.0

172 166.5 161 155.5

150

SparkPoints: (44,056)
Fitness Minutes: (42,927)
Posts: 4,325
11/16/09 7:53 P

If I'm at home, I just don't keep things I can't eat around. If I'm out and someone tries to get me to eat something, I either say I've just eaten and I'm full or I try only one bite of something. Usually if I can keep myself really busy, I don't even think about having something that I know I shouldn't.

Pounds lost: 17.0

0 31.75 63.5 95.25

127

Posts: 257
11/16/09 2:48 P

I remember how hard I am working on my arc trainer and how much longer I have to be on it if I indulge!

Pounds lost: 10.0

0 7.5 15 22.5

30

Posts: 4,506
11/14/09 3:35 P

I was doing great halloween night taking the grand kids trick or treating and having plenty around the house. BUT one of the parents whipped out some chocolate cheescake bites SURPRISE!! There went my control
But every day is a new opportunity to eat clean and healthy.

current weight: 159.0

215 197.5 180 162.5

145

Posts: 32
11/14/09 3:10 P

I try to make sure I've eaten my 5-6 small meals throughout the day, that I have access to something health at most times, and if I choose to partake in eating something not so healthy, I limit my portion...and tell myself the rewards from refraining or eating less of something are worth a lifetime.

current weight: 348.0

378 351 324 297

270

Posts: 660
11/14/09 12:05 P

This is probably what breaks me and keeps me in a dieting for life yo-yo. I work in a office with young I'm going to eat whatever I want kind of people. There are a few exceptions (my boss who runs every day and then takes a little bit of this and that, and two lifesize Barbies who count every calorie) But I am the only Type 1 Diabetic (there are others Type 2 who are in denial and at least 50-60 pounds overweight.
But there are tempting foods and treats constantly floating around the office.
I bring all my meals, exercise in the morning, brush my teeth, chew gum, drink water, say no thanks, avoid the kitchenette and sometimes all these things work, however sometimes, I just don't want to resist it and take a nibble of this or that and skip my planned meal.
What I hate is once I have something off my meal plan, then I open the door to more random eating of things I should not have.

This cycle is what keeps me maintaining my weight even with all my positive behavior 90% of the time.

Being a diabetic is a great way to get others to not pressure you to eat, but it doesn't mean they won't eat it all around you and leave it every where in the office. Most of the time I can handle it, but sometimes it really pisses me off!

current weight: 145.8

162 153.75 145.5 137.25

129

SparkPoints: (8,031)
Fitness Minutes: (4,359)
Posts: 114
11/14/09 11:59 A

Depends on what the surprise food is. If it's a sweet or one of my favorites I usually don't do so well. Truth be known, my willpower isn't what it needs to be most of the time.

current weight: 182.8

223 204.75 186.5 168.25

150

SparkPoints: (12,060)
Fitness Minutes: (2,970)
Posts: 95
11/14/09 11:02 A

If its a work, I have a stash of itty bitty plates, and I grab one of those. If someone asks, I tell them that I don't want to ruin my appetite for dinner, lunch, whatever.

At home, its easier because nothing in my house is a surprise to me. I shop for it, I cook it, I eat it.

Pounds lost: 9.6

0 9.25 18.5 27.75

37

Posts: 1
11/14/09 10:57 A

I tell the truth. I have to watch my sugar and don't eat desserts. It works because people don't bug you when there might be a medical reason. And when you think about it, extra weight is a health issue, too, so this could work for every one. I have also found that chocolate keeps me awake at night, so I can use that as an excuse also. I have found that I was accepting food to be polite, even when I didn't really want it. Now the gals at club tell me what willpower I have and that is almost as good as a taste. Peg

Posts: 158
11/14/09 10:02 A

Villadinorah - I love your attitude. I'm going to try that "an *opportunity* to exercise portion control."

Posts: 309
11/14/09 9:55 A

I say that I have just eaten and have zero room left!!!

Posts: 7
11/14/09 9:24 A

Surprise foods scare me a little so if there's not anything healthy on the table i ask the host for a veg. plate. my friends are very sympathetic to my weight lose. they help our ant way they can

Pounds lost: 3.0

0 18.5 37 55.5

74

SparkPoints: (4,746)
Fitness Minutes: (3,760)
Posts: 407
11/14/09 8:19 A

I just say no thank you and walk away if necessary.

Pounds lost: 13.0

0 12.5 25 37.5

50

Posts: 249
11/14/09 8:17 A

Sometimes I say....Oh I didn't realize there were any chocolates left in this world. I thought I'd eaten them all. Thank you, but I can't go there.

Pounds lost: 9.0

0 7.75 15.5 23.25

31

SparkPoints: (15,248)
Fitness Minutes: (29,090)
Posts: 1,296
11/14/09 4:39 A

I never say no, unless it is something that truly does nothing for me.

Such surprises offer a great opportunity for me to exercise my portion control know-how, that I actually look forward to those challenges.

Edited by: VILLADINORAH at: 11/14/2009 (04:40)

current weight: 104.7

141.8 132.525 123.25 113.975

104.7

Posts: 292
11/14/09 1:15 A

I joke: it's just going to go to waist!... mine! No thanks.

current weight: 194.0

205 200 195 190

185

Posts: 158
11/13/09 4:28 P

What if it's left in the office kitchen all day for you and others to eat? "Just saying no" - to my own cravings - ALL DAY LONG - becomes much more difficult. That's why I wish folks at the office would walk around distribiuting their treats to whomever wants them - and then hide whatever is left. Ha, not realistic, I guess.

Posts: 20
11/13/09 4:25 P

I just say no thanks. 9 out of 10 times that's all it takes, but there are always the food pushers out there who just wont take no for an answer.

My MIL is one of those people - she gets mortally offended if you dont go back for seconds (or sometimes thirds!). "I guess you dont like my cooking." "All this food will just go to waste." "I worked so hard on this."

The way I see it, I have the power to say no. I dont have the power to change whatever self-esteem issue the food pusher has that makes them somehow equate their self-worth to how much food I put in my mouth. Change what you can, and dont worry about the rest.

current weight: 254.0

290 255 220 185

150

Posts: 25
11/13/09 4:10 P

In Asian culture, it's impolite not to at least try it. I apply that to any culture. ;) I think the key as with all things is moderation. Of course, if you have no willpower, you can't go this route. It becomes much too much like setting a recovering alcoholic loose in a bar.

Pounds lost: 4.8

0 3.75 7.5 11.25

15

Posts: 309
11/13/09 2:08 P

I say that I have just eaten and don't have room for more.

Posts: 447
11/13/09 11:49 A

I struggle because about 90% of the time I can't say no. Today is a good day because I am sticking to what I brought and what I will be going home to eat for lunch.

current weight: 207.5

240.4 226.55 212.7 198.85

185

Posts: 24
11/13/09 10:39 A

Latvian_Sandy, I like your kindness. I, too, appreciate someone's thoughtfulness and efforts. A compliment goes a long way. If the surprise food is something I can freeze, I wrap it and freeze it for my husband who needs more calories than I do. Otherwise a bite will be enough. If I chew it slowly I have a wonderful memory which is enough! Moderation rather than deprivation is a key. I just can't have one bite of white cake or cookies. One bite leads to many others. Just have to leave those alone. :)

current weight: 167.0

172 163.25 154.5 145.75

137

Posts: 38
11/13/09 10:20 A

I should have read this yesterday. I had breakfast and when I got to work my co-worker who is leaving brought some dunkin doughnuts for everyone as farewell. That is my weakness and before thinking I had eaten one while talking to co workers in the breakroom. I didn't even enjoy it because I was busy talking. I wanted a second one then it hit me, and I felt sick to my stomach. Good thing I have a good lunch with me so I will be in control.

current weight: 255.0

265 248.75 232.5 216.25

200

Posts: 158
11/13/09 9:52 A

Oh boy, yesterday the holidday food started at our office (I guess you could say it started with Halloween leftovers). We got a big box of wonderful breads and huge, delicious cookies from our favorite bakery, Great Harvest. We send out their baskets to our clients every year at Christmas-time and so every November, they send us these free samples.

My two colleagues and I discussed ways to avoid overeating the goodies - the office manager was not willing to do any of my ideas (announce to our small office that the goodies are available for ____ hours or one day - take what you want, then the rest can go to whomever wants to take them home or pitched - but they have to be gone; or another idea - freeze the cookies to serve at our next client meeting). The OM has a lot of self control. I do not. I asked her if she would have ANY of the cookies and she said no. I used her determination to help me vow - before her and my other colleague - to abstain as well. (No promises for future cookies; let's take one challenge at a time)

I did pack up 4 of the cookies to take home to my husband.

So - ok, I did have some bites of the cookies at home, (just remembered I need to add those in to my nutrition tracker here) - but at least I have resolved that I will not be battling the temptation all day at work. I froze two of the cookies for a surprise for my husband at some later time. I find I am very able to "forget" about food that is frozen - weird - it's so easy to defrost a cookie - or some choc. chips. But if they're hidden away, I really can forget them.

Now I have to PLAN what to do about future gifts - December is full of gifts of food here.

SparkPoints: (3,437)
Fitness Minutes: (4,498)
Posts: 33
11/13/09 9:24 A

If I'm going to a party, I know they'll be a lot of "surprise" sweets there, so I try to eat before hand AND bring a bottle of water with me. I sip on the water most of the party and am therefore not tempted. If someone brings something to me, like chocolate, I try to eat a small serving and then put the rest away, like in the freezer, so it's not in front of my face all the time.

Pounds lost: 41.2

0 17 34 51

68

Posts: 34
11/13/09 8:33 A

Thank you Daisyrunning... That is so well said and I am going to use that sentence instead of an excuse!

Edited by: 9167111 at: 11/13/2009 (08:34)

Pounds lost: 46.0

0 25 50 75

100

Posts: 596
11/13/09 8:14 A

If someone is being sweet and brings me a box of chocolates, I open it, offer them one, pass it around and toss the rest when they leave. I am reversing my prediabetes and cannot have the first bite of something sweet otherwise it becomes a battle so I just do not ever take that bite. To others who offer me an unplanned sweet, I just politely turn them down. I know what I must do to stay NON diabetic and do it. It is far more important to me than hurting someone's feeling who will not take no for an answer. I am in charge here.

current weight: 139.5

164 156.75 149.5 142.25

135

Posts: 10
11/13/09 8:09 A

If you are strong enough to take a taste that if fine otherwise try to have healthy snacks on hand at all times or better yet just politely say no thanks they shouldn't feel offended if you dont partake in their high cal snacks. In my department there is always a combination of healthy snacks and that other kind so there is a choice and all are happy.

Posts: 24
11/13/09 7:19 A

I read this article yesterday and went to work and one of the girls had made iced pumpkin cookies. I couldn't resist, I ate too many! Some days I stay out of the kitchen and don't touch the stuff, but yesterday, I was weak. They were good.

current weight: 217.0

236 222.5 209 195.5

182

Posts: 144
11/12/09 9:07 P

Just let them know that your allergic. Allergic to being fat.

I got that from here. I recently read this blog and love it:
http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public
_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=252107
4&comment_page=2

It was awesome. A totally different persperctive.

Pounds lost: 5.0

0 25 50 75

100

Posts: 1,067
11/12/09 7:39 P

Great idea on the healthy snacks! It is kinda rude to bring in a bunch of high-cal stuff and leave it sit around. If they want to eat it at home, it's one thing... I think it's especially rude when they just set it down in front of you without asking...They mean well, but I just can't understand that mindset. But then, we're all adults, and we can just say 'no'.

Pounds lost: 5.6

0 20.75 41.5 62.25

83

Posts: 14
11/12/09 5:14 P

Just say no. Don't worry about being polite. It wasn't polite of them to bring in a fatty surprise. In my office, people are always bringing in cake or brownies or some other baked crap. Occasionally, I'll bring in almonds and FiberFuls (from Trader Joe's) and leave them next to the cake. People are surprisingly happy to eat healthily if there's an option. Ban the office cakes!

Posts: 2
11/12/09 4:42 P

I don't. LOL. Although I find it is easier to turn down food at an office party for example, if you didn't bring anything. That way you feel more guilty eating when you didn't contribute and others don't expect you to eat so much. Also, if you can act as if you are too busy to sit and eat most will leave you alone. If there is no safe foods to grab to save face then bringing the healthy dish to an office party can be on you! This helps me. Surprise birthday/retirement cake is polite to eat a bite or two. No one is going to monitor your plate and say you didn't eat enough. But they will notice/talk if you turn down something celebratory.

current weight: 114.0

117 114 111 108

105

Posts: 821
11/12/09 4:28 P

ignore them

Pounds lost: 51.0

0 12.75 25.5 38.25

51

Posts: 15
11/12/09 4:06 P

That is a particular problem for me. I don't deny myself even when i really should. I am going to try some of your methods maybe i can find one that will work.

Pounds lost: 90.0

0 22.5 45 67.5

90

Posts: 142
11/12/09 3:01 P

with great difficulty I say "no thank you." Usually I say I'll taste it because I'm a professional and people are generally seeking food-approval. So I taste it. And I ask them what's in it because I am a professional so of course I want to know. Then I track that taste and don't feel guilty.

current weight: 96.0

110 105.5 101 96.5

92

SparkPoints: (2,091)
Fitness Minutes: (204)
Posts: 129
11/12/09 1:56 P

The answer is thanks but no thanks. I can't right now.

Edited by: MOLAGIRL at: 11/12/2009 (13:57)

Pounds lost: 14.0

0 16 32 48

64

Posts: 225
11/12/09 1:51 P

Today I just said no, my husband called to ask if I wanted egg foo young for dinner, hey were ordering out at lunch today. Now I love egg foo young, but today I had the energy and resolve to say no.

Pounds lost: 1.8

0 5.75 11.5 17.25

23

Posts: 48
11/12/09 1:46 P

I try to always have something else with me that I can eat. My husband thinks it's hilarious that I always have an apple in my purse, but it really helps! My work always has tons of treats, so I keep some hardboiled eggs in the fridge here at work to be able to eat too.

current weight: 130.0

131 127.75 124.5 121.25

118

Posts: 14
11/12/09 11:53 A

I say thank you and give it to someone else. I wish I used this advice earlier. My friend brought in Chik-Fil-A chicken biscuit sandwiches in and I had already eaten my yogurt w/ high fiber cereal. I turned around and at the sandwich. Arg.

Pounds lost: 17.0

0 5.75 11.5 17.25

23

Posts: 155
11/12/09 11:00 A

I ALWAYS SAY "OH, NO THANK YOU I AM TRYING TO LOSE A LITTLE WIEHGT" OR "IM NOT REALLY HUNGRY RIGHT NOW BUT THANKS ANY WAY I APPRECIATE THE OFFER"

current weight: 150.0

150 143.75 137.5 131.25

125

Posts: 52
11/12/09 10:51 A

Stop and take a second in my head to think, is this really worth it. Some chocolate (which is my weakness), just insn't that good (tastes waxy, too sweet, etc...). I want to save my treats for the really good stuff. I really like a certain organic coffee with realy half and half a bit sweet. I am willing to not go for the donut that someone offers, if I can keep in mind that I can have my favorite cup of coffee in the afternoon. Focus and honesty.

Pounds lost: 3.0

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 2,391
11/12/09 9:57 A

Hubby likes to bring home leftover treats and goodies from work. They are appreciated and quite yummy and I used to eat them all. Not I share with the rest of the family (just a taste for me); freeze some; throw some away; get it out of sight; and/or have him bring them back to work!

current weight: 142.0

176 161 146 131

116

Posts: 59
11/12/09 9:25 A

It kind of all depends on my mood at the time. Some days it is easier to just look the other way and not give in to the temptation. I realize that I will never get to my goal and maintain it if I am always giving in to my weaknesses. I kind of make a deal with myself........... if I have that piece of cake or dessert then I must be willing to put in another half hour on the exercise the next day or cut my calorie intake. It usually works to keep me strong. Notice.. I said usually!!!!

Posts: 6
11/12/09 8:22 A

I am just getting back on the wagon, but what worked best for me last time was thinking of something really unappealing that I would have to do if I ate the item. In my undergrad psych class at Iowa, the prof. offered the class a Peanut Butter Cup. Anyone willing to eat it was to raise their hand. He selected four volunteers and then told them in order to eat it they had to lick a toilet bowl brush, brand new right out of the bag. Three out of four couldn't do it.

current weight: 315.0

323 279.75 236.5 193.25

150

Posts: 1
11/12/09 2:25 A

It's so hard to resist food that is just sitting there in front of you. Sometimes I can resist but I think I can handle it cause I know that I have a goal to meet.

Posts: 49
11/12/09 1:33 A

I have been struggling with this topic myself. I not only find it is difficult to say no to the "surprise" foods but also the family member or friend who offers to "share" their meal with me when I have ordered my own. It is a daily struggle but most of my family and friends are picking up on the fact that I will usually have the willpower to say no and they are trying not to offer the tempting foods to me. When it does come to turning it down, I just take a deep breath, close my eyes and remember why I am doing this lifestyle change....it usually helps get me through that instant moment when I really want it but don't.

current weight: 200.6

219.6 202.2 184.8 167.4

150

SparkPoints: (38,968)
Fitness Minutes: (17,698)
Posts: 2,208
11/11/09 10:38 P

WHAT a hot topic!

I have been one of those people that bring in cheesecake (homemade, one of the best!) into work ONLY for special occasions (birthday, once a year). I have always viewed this as a truly special treat - I do NOT bake cheesecakes all the time!

And this is the way I view other treats. If it is something I'd like to try, go the European way and have a SMALL bite - everything in moderation. I approach holidays the same: enjoy, but in moderation. If you find that the treat is not at all enjoyable, just get rid of it! (discreetly)

I'm not from Europe, but my whole family is, so I am used to treats that are MUCH less sweet than most American treats. I find that I don't even like the cupcakes, cakes, etc. with that horrendous frosting. But, to be polite, I'll take a serving, try it, and be very complementary, but get rid of anything I truly don't enjoy.

Politeness has been drilled into me, so it is difficult for me to say no outright, but I certainly feel I should NOT eat anything I don't truly enjoy.

SAVOR life!

Edited by: LATVIAN_SANDY at: 11/11/2009 (22:39)

current weight: 111.0

120 117 114 111

108

SparkPoints: (11,543)
Fitness Minutes: (14,680)
Posts: 229
11/11/09 10:23 P

Separate myself from the food. Stand far away or sit away from the table.

Pounds lost: 5.0

0 12.5 25 37.5

50

SparkPoints: (23,216)
Fitness Minutes: (33,106)
Posts: 675
11/11/09 10:20 P

ask them to help you stay strong in your quest for health

Posts: 329
11/11/09 9:47 P

Just say a polite no thank you...if necessary explain how I lost 15 pounds and am working towards getting healthier.

current weight: 155.0

171 158.25 145.5 132.75

120

Posts: 998
11/11/09 9:02 P

You just have to have the will power to say NO...

current weight: 160.0

220 205 190 175

160

Posts: 130
11/11/09 5:58 P

It's almost as if it is a habit. I know I was constantly scrutinized for not clearing my plate. Now, I feel like if it's in front of me, I HAVE to clear my plate. Starving kids and all. It probably doesn't help that I never get full. (Truly, I never do) I know that's why I never force food in any way shape or form on my kids. You don't like what I cooked? Make a sandwhich. The end. LOL But me. Still fighting the finish your plate urge. sighs.

current weight: 190.5

194 179.25 164.5 149.75

135

Posts: 37
11/11/09 5:57 P

First I see if its something I like. Then I see if I have calories left for any of it. Then I say yes or no. I have just lost 50 lbs. (finally people are noticing) but I think that gives me an open door to say no - I'm trying to keep losing!

current weight: 210.0

258 245.5 233 220.5

208

Posts: 15
11/11/09 5:40 P

I am really bad at it too...

Specially at potluck, I eat as if it was my last ever meal! meaning, overeat just because i can. Terrible habit.

What I have been trying to do, when faced with temptaions, is to eat the healthiest out of all the choices. Or if its like a chocolate cake, I drink lots of water first so that I am full when I eat. Or if I have something on me, like a piece of fruit, I eat that first because the natural sugars usually do the trick when it comes to my never ending sweet cravings.

But I must add, its a daily battle...

current weight: 213.0

237 213.5 190 166.5

143

SparkPoints: (699)
Fitness Minutes: (442)
Posts: 31
11/11/09 5:08 P

I don't know. I'm still trying to figure out to say no to food being handed to me. So far, it's not working.

current weight: 203.3

206 190.75 175.5 160.25

145

Posts: 54
11/11/09 4:38 P

it's so much easier not to srat then to start and then stop...avoid the food! talk and make friends :)

SparkPoints: (15,294)
Fitness Minutes: (2,988)
Posts: 514
11/11/09 3:54 P

It is a tough one, but I love the results that I see when I do say no, so that makes it easier. Also, when I'm watching calories carefully, I'm just usually honest about it with others around me so they know why I'm refusing their food, and it's nothing personal.

current weight: 138.0

165 156.25 147.5 138.75

130

SparkPoints: (7,966)
Fitness Minutes: (3,108)
Posts: 465
11/11/09 3:33 P

This is one of my downfalls...I just can't say no to people, especially when I know they are doing it to show they care. I'm going to try some of these new strategies and see if I can overcome my weakness.

current weight: 234.0

270 233.75 197.5 161.25

125

Posts: 9
11/11/09 3:07 P

Surprise foods is not so much a problem any more for me as I've been choosing mostly salads where ever I go and making sure that I don't use much if any dressing. Also, if I don't order a salad, I'll order protein and vegetables with no carbs just so that I don't over do the carbs and make sure that the fiber intake fills me up more quickly. As for the office, we've changed the candy dish to a dried fruit or almonds; everyone is on board to eating healthier.

Edited by: SERGEANTGAL at: 11/11/2009 (15:08)

Pounds lost: 7.0

0 12.25 24.5 36.75

49

Posts: 740
11/11/09 2:47 P

I used to have this problem at my former place of employment. I would be so proud of myself one day, and my coworker would bring me a Potbelly cookie (which happens to be my favorite) or a frosty from Wendy's. Out of that environment, I'm hoping that I won't have that problem, but my boss has already come into my office with a Trader Joe's Peppermint Sandwich Cookie... When things are open to the public (like a box of munchkins left in the office kitchen), it's easier for me to avoid. When it's offered directly at me, it's not quite as easy.

Pounds lost: 7.6

0 12.5 25 37.5

50

SparkPoints: (10,128)
Fitness Minutes: (2,500)
Posts: 2,805
11/11/09 2:46 P

I like SHRINKYDINK's answers below and I'm going to use them! I know most people offer food out of niceness but it isn't nice if we eat it and gain from it!
When we are striving to be healthy, be honest with people, without being rude of course!


Edited by: GLORIAB73 at: 11/11/2009 (14:46)

current weight: 166.0

170 162.5 155 147.5

140

SparkPoints: (2,149)
Fitness Minutes: (1,118)
Posts: 80
11/11/09 2:24 P

I had a friend bring me pancakes from McDonald's this morning. I thanked him, took them back to my desk and ate one with no butter or syrup. This was no big deal, but it's hard not to feel rude declining food that people bring you. At least for me. People (for the most part) do it to be nice and I appreciate that.

current weight: 177.4

180 169 158 147

136

SparkPoints: (5,076)
Fitness Minutes: (6,751)
Posts: 6
11/11/09 1:10 P

I totally agree! Thank you for saying that, once you account for those calories they are consumed! Gone! Wait till tomorrow. Like you said, wrap it up & take it home. Thanks for your Blogg!

current weight: 185.0

188 178.5 169 159.5

150

Posts: 29
11/11/09 12:48 P

To myself: I don't give myself a choice. I tell myself, "Oh well. You aren't eating that." Period. If it wasn't in the plan, it isn't going in my mouth. If I really want it, I wrap it up and see if I can work it into the next meal.

To others: The truth. If I've already eaten, I've already eaten. Period. If I haven't eaten yet but have something planned, I already have it planned. Period. If I haven't eaten and don't have a plan, then I count the calories as I add them to my plate and don't go over what I've allowed for myself.

To food pushers: Say no thank you and keep saying it. If it starts getting uncomfortable, "I am not intentionally trying to hurt your feelings by not eating it, I just don't want it right now because I've already eaten. I'd love to wrap up a piece and take it home for later, though." Then later, I either work it into my meal in advance or I throw it away.

Period.

Period.

NO CHOICE!

current weight: 242.0

251 225 199 173

147

Posts: 66
11/11/09 12:34 P

I focus on planning my meals and snacks out everyday, so when a colleague comes in and says "We are going____ for lunch" I can say "sorry, I already brought my lunch, but thanks for the invite!"

Just earlier someone came in my office and asked if I wanted some yogurt covered raisins. I politely answered with thanks, but I just ate breakfast and I am full.

Unexpected fast food trips is what I hate when my husband and I are out and about on the weekends with the kids it is so much easier to stop and grab something and continue with errands and scheduled outings. I try to pick healthy things but that is hard to tell whats healthy when you aren't in a salad mood. I am doing research on some of our favorite stops and finding what actually is healthier and what I though was a healthy choice was not. I am learning it is always best to plan and prepare for challenges there will be many!

Pounds lost: 11.2

0 25 50 75

100

Posts: 1,240
11/11/09 12:15 P

NO, Thanks

current weight: 144.0

144 139.25 134.5 129.75

125

Posts: 88
11/11/09 11:19 A

This is a tough one for me. My MIL is a food-pusher. She gets really bent out of shape when I say "No, thanks" and she'll repeat her offer about 5-6 times. If I'm firm she gets annoyed. Sometimes I cave, sometimes not. A classic move by MIL: We invite them over for dinner, she's not supposed to bring anything, she shows with a tray of cheeses and crackers or some sort of dip. She does it when I do ask her to bring something, too. We need an eye-rolling smiley.

I like the whole "I just ate" thing.

current weight: 168.0

169 164.25 159.5 154.75

150

Posts: 309
11/11/09 10:53 A

I pretend that I have just eaten and can't eat one more bite.

Posts: 24
11/11/09 10:07 A

Either "no thank you, I am not hungry!" or "I'm going to take some, but I need to save it for later." Always say, it looks delicious! Thank you for offering it."

Posts: 22
11/11/09 10:05 A

I recently was presented with a 36.5 ounce box of Dove chocolate. Who in the heck needs that much chocolate? I get that the giver was doing it as a "thank you" but I politely told her that saying "Thank You" is very appropriate and would have sufficed because I am really struggling to keep off the 40 pounds I'd lost. Since she wouldn't take no for an answer, I then proceeded to fill up every candy dish in the office. The chocolate was gone within an hour or two.

Which brings me to another point, why is it so difficult to just say "Thank You?" Can someone explain that to me.

My other response to surprise foods is "Does this butt look like it needs a piece of chocolate (or whatever over the top food)?" That generally works and the giver generally laughs and leaves me alone and doesn't make that mistake again.

current weight: 284.6

284.6 278.7 272.8 266.9

261

Posts: 258
11/11/09 10:02 A

I'm not in the mood for that thanks. Or, if it's someone who doesn't know me well, I'm not a big fan of _____ works not only for that moment but for good!

Pounds lost: 7.0

0 4 8 12

16

SparkPoints: (8,675)
Fitness Minutes: (7,910)
Posts: 615
11/11/09 10:00 A

Most people around me know that I am on spark people as I am always talking about keeping track of what I eat. So I am just honest with them and tell them it will not fit my calorie budget for the day. If its someone new/unfamiliar offering me a calorie rich snack, I take time to explain what we do on spark people and most people actually want to join in ( or at least they say so ).
I remember for the last potluck I took cut veggies with light ranch and they were all gone. And a coworker who bought fruits told me she was thinking of me while deciding what to bring.

current weight: 124.0

142 134 126 118

110

Posts: 330
11/11/09 9:33 A

Just say 'NO thank you'

Pounds lost: 13.0

0 20 40 60

80

Posts: 19
11/11/09 9:19 A

I have a problem when I go to one of my branches and they brought in home made biscuits - - very fattening - and stuffed with pork loin, chicken, sausage. They always try to get me to eat - I say - as good as it looks, I'm full because I just ate, but thanks anyway then I quickly start talking about something else to get the topic off of food. Seems to work.

Pounds lost: 4.5

0 5 10 15

20

Posts: 27,861
11/11/09 8:00 A

I just say "I've already eaten, so I don't have room for it."

current weight: 192.4

214 199.6 185.2 170.8

156.4

Posts: 1,337
11/11/09 7:53 A

No, thank you

Posts: 24
11/11/09 7:32 A

Well, right after I wrote and said I expect surprise foods at work and fill up on water I had a test. Last evening my neighbor surprised me with her homemade pumpkin pie. (Pieces already cut on a plate.) Sparkspeople nutrition tracker saved the day. I knew I had extra calories left, so instead of eating the food I had planned, I ate her pie without the crust and still ended the day within my calorie goal. Plus that, I enjoyed her company and the pie guilt free!

Edited by: TAPEKNIF at: 11/11/2009 (07:34)

current weight: 167.0

172 163.25 154.5 145.75

137

SparkPoints: (7,410)
Fitness Minutes: (4,815)
Posts: 380
11/11/09 7:24 A

WTG LISA! YOU CAN REVERSE TYPE 2!
THE WAITER ASKED IF MY DAUGHTER AND I WANTED ANOTHER BASKET OF TORTILLA CHIPS AND I SAID "I'D LOVE MORE BUT I WANT TO HAVE ROOM FOR MY MEAL!" MY HUSBAND AND I PRACTICALLY FIGHT OVER THE CHIPS! LOL I WAS PLEASE TO BE ABLE TO REFUSE AND NOT FEEL DEPRIVED OR DEPRAVED! I ALSO ORDERED A LUNCH SIZE PORTION AND A SIDE SALAD INSTEAD OF RICE OR BEANS (I LEARNED I NEEDED TO CUT OUT LEGUMES FROM ANOTHER TEAM FOR ANOTHER HEALTH ISSUE! I LOVE BEANS BUT I LIKE FEELING WELL EVEN BETTER!) I'M LEARNING SO MUCH I'LL BE A PHD IN HEALTHY LIFESTYLE BEFORE IT'S DONE!
JEANNE IN GA

Pounds lost: 34.4

0 20 40 60

80

Posts: 33
11/10/09 9:18 P

Last night my hairdresser offered up homemade cookies. I was so focused, I didn't even think before I answered. "No, absolutely not" She knew I was seriously dieting and wasn't insulted. She just replied, 'wow, you're not messing around, good for you' and that was it.
I was diagnosed with diabetes last week and I'm going to use it for all it's worth. "I've met my carb quota for the day, sorry"

:)

current weight: 230.0

265 249 233 217

201

SparkPoints: (23,216)
Fitness Minutes: (33,106)
Posts: 675
11/10/09 8:53 P

pretend to get into the food (take a bite, or even pretend and leave it on the fork) make a big deal
then get into a conversation and lose the food

Posts: 13
11/10/09 8:34 P

Sometimes you treat yourself,it is okay once in awhile. Just plan ahead. You know when you go certain places there will be treats, so eat a snack before you go that is wholesome and good for you and then you are not as hungry when you get there and your will power will be stronger. Also I always allow myself one small bites of my favs then I dump the rest in the trash....Takes some will power but living healthier and being stronger is far more worth it than over doing those surprises.