How to say no at Christmas without offending anyone…

It can be really hard to say no to the people you love when it comes to food and alcohol at Christmas.  This is especially tricky when you’re not allowed to eat certain textures due to the phase you are pre- or post-op. So how do you say no without offending the person who is providing it?

Have the conversation early…

First, talk to them in advance. If the opportunity comes up to bring something to contribute, then do. Rather than say you are on a diet (which can bring up a million other issues…), perhaps say you are so grateful for them hosting, you have a few things you cannot eat, and instead of burdening them with it, you would be happy to bring a few dishes. Be specific with the options you could bring and allow the host to them choose. The Australian Healthy Food Guide has a ton of fabulous recipes, and posts like this one have some really cute, healthier Christmas snacks.

If you’re hosting, you can plan the menu around what you need for yourself as well as what will work for the family! Remember, you don’t need to try everything on the table, so just making sure there are a few dishes you’re comfortable with, as well as the family favourites is usually a happy medium.

On the day…

On the day, try distraction if you are being hassled about what you are eating or interrogated about why you’re not eating much by someone you’re not that close to. Instead of delving into what you are eating and why or how you’ve lost so much weight, try to ask them questions about what they’ve been up to, how they are, what they are doing for the break etc etc. For example, if someone asks why you aren’t eating much, you could say “I’m just not that hungry, but it’s delicious isn’t it. Which is your favourite dish?” Redirecting conversation away from you will make life a lot easier than getting stuck in the talk about the latest diet or weight loss method someone is trying.

Those close to you…

If you’re struggling with immediate family or close friends, then a heart to heart may be necessary. I tend to find that the more open you are with people about what you can and can’t eat, why you can and can’t eat it, and how you are feeling, the more easily you can get them on your side. I know this can be tricky but working towards a Christmas day solution that works for the whole family will in the long run, keep everyone happy.

If you’d like more tips and tricks for managing Christmas day and the party season, see this post.