Are you worried about food pushers during the holidays? You’re not alone. Many people feel pressure from friends and family to overindulge in food and drinks during celebrations. Here are some tips from nutrition expert Angelo Poli from MetPro to help you navigate these situations and stay on track with your health and fitness goals.

Tip 1: Recognize the Intention

First, it’s important to recognize that food pushers often come from a place of love and generosity. They want to provide delicious food and share their joy with you. Understanding this can help you approach the situation with compassion and respect.

Tip 2: Set Expectations

One effective strategy is to set expectations with your friends and family in advance. Let them know that you are following a health program or working with a coach. This can create a respectful boundary around your choices and help prevent pressure to indulge.

Tip 3: Eat Twice, but Eat Well

If you know that you’ll be attending events where healthy food options will be scarce, consider eating a healthy meal beforehand. This can help you avoid overeating unhealthful options. It’s better to eat twice and eat well than to arrive super hungry and gorge on unhealthy foods.

Tip 4: Bring a Dish to Share

Another useful strategy is to offer to bring your own dish to share. This can ensure that there’s at least one healthy option available, and it can also help you feel more in control of the situation.

Tip 5: Stop Projecting Peer Pressure

Remember that much of the pressure to overindulge comes from within. If you approach the situation calmly and confidently, you may find that others are less insistent than you expected. Don’t let your own fears about peer pressure cause you to give in.

Enjoy the Holidays with Confidence

Dealing with food pushers during the holidays can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to derail your health and fitness goals. Use these strategies to stay on track, enjoy the festivities, and feel good about your choices.

For more healthy eating and exercise strategies, check out MetPro’s app.

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