Outsmarting Temptation

Avoidance is not necessarily a bad thing.

I recently invited a friend out to dinner to a Mexican restaurant. A large group of mutual friends are planning to get together after a two-hour fitness fundraiser. We are going to be tired and hungry.

But my friend kindly turned me down.

And I couldn’t be happier for her.

In the past month, she’s lost nearly eight pounds.

Mexican food – beans, rice and tortilla chips – are really not ideal choices for her.

Let’s not forget the margarita. It can have as many calories as a Big Mac.

Of course, you can eat healthy Mexican food at a restaurant when you’re trying to lose weight. Fresh guacamole – in moderation – is loaded with healthy fats and numerous vitamins and minerals. You also can order a dish with meat or seafood that’s grilled, not fried. And just because an entree comes with rice and refried beans doesn’t mean it can’t be replaced with vegetables or a salad (dressing on the side).

But let’s face it: it’s not a lot of fun to watch other people eat food that you’re trying to avoid. It can be downright torture.

My friend said her willpower is weak.

I think her willpower is strong.

The easiest thing would have been for her to come with us and eat a basket of tortilla chips.

What would you have decided?

Alice Warchol is a freelance health blog writer and fitness instructor.

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