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party and socializing strategies

I've been reading the starbucks strategies which have been EXCELLENT! I thought, rather than hijack the thread, I would ask you guys what you do when you're at a party or dinner and the food and wine keeps flowing. TIA!!

Wed. Jun 28, 12:10pm

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At those types of events, I allow myself to taste a few favorites, then that's usually it. I try to focus more on the people who are there & the conversation, and I usually forget about the food. With some events, it gets difficult juggling everything if there aren't many seats. I've actually left these types of events hungry!

Wednesday, June 28, 2006, 12:40 PM

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When I go to a party and I'm already at the set number of drinks I'll allow myself to have, I hold a drink in my hand that way i'm not offered time and time again for another drink.

It works well with a beer can or non glass cup because they can't tell how much liquid you have in there.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006, 12:49 PM

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I recommend assessing and looking at all the available food before tasting any of it. Choose just 2 or 3 of the available food options, instead of loading the plate up with a gazillion options. Then, at all costs, DO NOT HOVER AROUND THE FOOD TABLE!!! Just standing near the food is almost more temptation than I can bear. Move away from it! Make it more difficult for yourself to get seconds.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006, 12:49 PM

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A few strategies I try:

-Repeat to self: "A party is about the people not the food". Although I don't always believe it:)
-I volunteer to bring a veggie tray whenever possible. Then I can munch away on veggies without too many damaging calories
-Only eat food off of a plate. Helps to cut down on mindless munching.
-Keep yourself away from the food. Pick a different part of the room to sit/stand
-Look at everything before you start to eat. Then make a decision about what you will try. Only eat something that tastes GREAT.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006, 12:49 PM

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These strategies depend onthe type of social occasion.

If it's a coctail/appetizer type of get-together I pick the 3 things I would really enjoy eating the most (usually not large things) and then I nibble and I sip and I nurse my drink until people start to make comments :-) It's easier on your usually waaay too hospitable host if you can graciously refuse more because 'oh, I'm still working on this!'

If it's dinner I make sure I eat a healthy portion of salad if it's offered and it's not loaded with high-fat items. However if there's not much good to pick from healthy items you just have to practice portion control. I try to stick to one drink and usually have the excuse that I need to stay sharp in order to drive home. If it's available sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice or a slice of lime is a great way to look like you're drinking something and keep it light.

If it's a potluck I make sure I bring a healthy entree or appetizer - not only for myself but for others who may be looking for a way to stay healthy and still socialize. Vietmese salad rolls (not fried) with a sweet, light dipping sauce are a favorite of mine and get rave reviews. I'll also bring seasoned veggie skewers to throw on the grill and chopped salad to BBQ's.

And if people make comments I'm pretty upfront "I just lost some weight and I'm not interested in putting it back on." That's blunt enough that most folks take the hint and if they don't I ignore them. I'm not going to ruin my good progress to make someone feel better about themselves.



Wednesday, June 28, 2006, 12:51 PM

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I agree that you should not hover around the food. Find a place to sit and talk away from the snacks, and you won't just grab them because they are there. A piece of gum after you are finished might also deter you from mindless munching.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006, 1:58 PM

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Drink lots of water, keep the water drink with you in your hand.
Just eat the foods that are worth eating, not ordinary, like the salmon, skip the rice. Do have a tiny piece of the luscious dessert, so you won't feel deprived, or if served a large slice, eat a few bites and then in a moment of bravery, dump salt on the rest, so you won't be tempted, or throw it away.

Thursday, June 29, 2006, 5:06 AM

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I usually eat before I go to a party. I might have one drink, then fill it up with diet coke. When people see you with a drink in your hand they have no idea what you are drinking. Another thing I do is tell them I'm the DD, sometimes that works.

Thursday, June 29, 2006, 9:49 AM

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