Three ways to avoid giving into food-pushers

1. Tell the truth. If you're serious about sticking to your dietary guns, let loved ones in on your efforts.

2. Fill your plate. If you can't be candid about calories, "stack a small plate with nutritious options to keep food pushers at bay," says Desiree Nielsen, a B.C.-based dietitian.

3. Volunteer a dish. "Being in control of at least one option lets you know the calorie count and gives you an excuse for seconds," says Nielsen.