Sabotage can come from anywhere at any time. Here are some of our best tips for handling sabotage in various situations:

If you’re cornered by someone who insists on overfeeding you, despite your polite refusals, then continue to say “no” decisively and creatively. There are hundreds of ways you can say no: "No, I’m full thanks," "No, I’m allergic to cake," "No thanks, it’s too late for me to eat sugar, I won’t sleep," "No thanks, it I eat another morsel, I will upchuck on the tablecloth!"

If saying no just doesn’t work, and the food is still plunked down in front of you, be strong in your resolve; leave the food there and don’t eat it. You might feel a bit rude, but a person who simply refuses to listen to you is ruder!

If you’re at the office make sure you are prepared for the onslaught of available candy, mid-morning treats, and vending machines by filling up before you go to work. If you eat a good breakfast, you are less likely to succumb to greasy donuts and calorie-loaded candy! You can also keep healthy, low-fat snacks in your bag, briefcase, or drawer for when temptation hits.

If your spouse or partner is showing “support” by stocking the fridge with your favorite drinks, cheesecake, pizza and ice cream and then eating them in front of you, don’t explode! Explain why a healthy weight and lifestyle are important to you now. Who knows, he or she may decide to join you. At the least you can ask him or her to respect your decisions. If talking really doesn’t work, stick to your resolve.

If you have the kind of “helpful” friend who is constantly barraging you with pointless criticism, simplistic solutions for weight loss, and nosey questions about your food plan, try saying something like: "Actually, my approach to weight loss is working out well for me at the moment, but thanks anyway." That ought to get the “butt out!” point across, without sounding too harsh.

If you want to say "yes" because the fries just smell soooo good, or because someone is waving plates of tasty treats under your eyes, or because you don’t want to upset whoever made the triple-chocolate-cream layer cake, have your refusals ready. Say "No" even if you aren’t thinking it. For example:

• Say: "No, thank you, I've already had two pieces." Even if you're thinking: "Two pieces the size of a pea!"
• Say: "No thanks, I have high blood pressure." Even if you're thinking: "Who cares if my blood pressure is 180/100? I want more potato chips."
• Say: "No thanks. My doctor absolutely forbids me to have any of that right now." Even if you're thinking: "Surely it won't do much harm?"
  

Sabotage from anyone is painful and difficult, and it's particularly tough when it comes from those who you expect to be loving and supportive. When others sabotage you, remember that the problem lies with them and not you. Stay strong in your resolve and say "no" - your health and waistline may depend upon it!