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I think my husband is making me fat – help!
I have to tell you when I read this, I did smirk a bit because sometimes I think it is true… not that your husband (loved one, friend, mother – whoever) is making you gain weight, but that they aren’t….well, let’s say they aren’t helping the situation!
Technically your husband isn’t making you fat, but it could be more like he isn’t supporting your weight-loss plan. It can be challenging when you have made a personal commitment and you feel like you are alone or that there isn’t someone to back you up or help you stay committed. That seems to be the hardest part – willpower and sticking to your guns.
Interestingly enough, studies have shown that with a mate, you do gain more weight (nice rhyme) and we eat more when we have company than when we’re alone. Let’s face it: We often mimic habits of others around us… especially when it comes to food. If your partner or friend is eating or having a meal and you are trying to stick to your meal plan, we often think, “Just this time.” It happens to the best of us.
Focus on your goals. Here are a couple of things to keep you strong!
- Make Your Own Plate: Don’t let your husband (or whoever) make your dish up – this can lead to more food on your plate than what you want to consume. You both can enjoy a meal together – it just doesn’t have to be as much!
- Be Firm: Take responsibility for your actions. Remember, the one who will benefit from you being strong is YOU. What an accomplishment it will be to push forward with that willpower.
- Don’t Eat Just to Keep Them Company: No reason to eat or snack just because someone else is or wants your company. My trick is to grab a drink (water, seltzer, etc.) and then keep them company. Gives me something to consume and I get to talk away (while they eat)!
- Communicate: This is a tough one! It’s always so easy to say what you feel, especially with touchier subjects like weight loss or personal behaviors. Try to let them know what you are trying to achieve; talk with them about helping you by simply just providing moral support. It is a big help and doesn’t cost a thing!
- If You Can’t Beat Them, Don’t Join Them: I’m being a little direct here, but some people simply don’t get it or have a difficult time seeing others working toward a goal (especially if you are having success). Maybe during this time you need a little space when it comes to eating or doing activities to get you closer to your goal. Not everyone has the same goals… just stick to yours!
Have a diet question for Pam? Email askpam@ediets.com and check back to see if your question is picked! And if you missed a previous column, click here to see the archive.
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