nagging about weight

[ScubaJenn81]

I have a question about family that I only see every few months. I have always had an issue with my weight, I have worked very hard to get down to a place where I feel comfortable. It takes a lot of effort to keep my weight steady, but with the proper food and proper amount, I can do it just fine. When my husband and I go out to visit these family members, they always seem to comment about my weight, how much I eat and what foods. I am big into the fruits and veggies and white meat, while they are into the steak and potatoes, mayo based food, along with ice cream and cakes. I should mention that they are not huge people, but they wouldn't hurt to loose some weight.

If it was just a comment when we walked in the door, I would just suck it up, but it is stated muliple times by each of the many family members. Then they try to get me to eat more of their relatively unhealthy foods. I do not want to gain weight when I am there (which I will if I eat like they want me too), but I also do not want them to think I am a too good for them for not eating their food. They think I am on a diet, but for me, it is a lifestyle change. What can you suggest for me to say to these people that mean well when I go away to see them?

[redneckdiver52]

Some people just don't understand concepts like proper dieting. That is their thing not yours. Politely decline their food and explain to them your position on food once and from then on let them do their thing and you do yours. Take satisfaction in knowing you are doing what is right for you. Their opinion doesn't help your healthful life.

[YellowfinKunkfish]

When people question why I eat the way I eat. I like to educate them. I tell them exactly what those unhealthy foods that I don't want to eat are doing to their body. It really has nothing to do with losing weight, (a nice by-product) but more to do with being healthy, and living longer. They usually quit bothering me after that, because they don't want to hear the big lecture about how badly they eat. I figure, they asked for it by giving me a hard time!
Family members ARE the worst about this, I usually don't have any trouble with anyone else, except occasionally co-workers because I didn't eat the fudge, cake, etc... that they brought for everyone to snack on.


Rhonda

[cgvmer]

Do what my kids do, nod listen (but not really) and continue on with there life

[ScubaJenn81]

Sounds easy enough, biting my tongue and not letting it bug me is the hard part. Something I am getting better with, but still have to work on.

[caroln]

Family is the worst because they don't feel the need to be tactful or respectful that someone's diet is their own business. It's easy to say ignore them, but very hard to do especially since this is somewhat of a sensitive issue and something you've been working hard on.

[Tableleg]

Biting your lip probably isn't the best thing for this situation. Like Rhonda said, if you explain to them what you're doing and why in such a way that they're able to understand it, then they're much less likely to harase you because it won't be 'you don't know what you're doing so you should try our way' anymore. And once they do understand why you do what you do, and they persist, then politely ask them to stop. If they still don't, instead of seeing them, go diving instead.

[Capt Hook]

I'm a vegetarian and my Mother is always trying to get me to eat meat, some times you just have to grin and bear it.

[nathanbarlow]

Originally Posted by Capt Hook

I'm a vegetarian and my Mother is always trying to get me to eat meat, some times you just have to grin and bear it.

That would piss me off to no end. As long as you are getting enough iron from your diet (hint: green veges!), there is actually no reason to eat meat - it is just the easiest way to get iron, as well as animal protein (different to plant protein).
Although I'm not a vegetarian, my Aunt (uncles wife) is, and we always make sure there is an alternate option for her. Although as long as animals are well treated in life, she is ok with it - so things like free-range organic chicken is ok with her, but most beef and pork aren't. I suppose she's more of a "conscientious objector" than a vegetarian but meh

[Tableleg]

Originally Posted by nathanbarlow

Although as long as animals are well treated in life, she is ok with it

So as long as the animal is treated well before being slaughtered for consumption, she's cool with it..? That's the coolest vegetarian I've ever heard of!