It should be easy to say no, I've had enough. You've tried everything, you're feeling full, you've had a lovely meal, so why is the pressure from the Pusher so often effective?

One strategy for dealing with a Food Pusher is to graciously accept the food, but explain you're full and would instead love to take a piece home. This often satisfies the Pusher, whilst avoiding the need for you to eat more. Another idea is to thank your host for the gorgeous food, but tell them you're full and if you eat anymore you'll be uncomfortable – very few Food Pushers will go so far that they want you to feel uncomfortable.

Food Pushers rarely give up by themselves. If you have an extra piece of cake this time, you'll be expected to take it next time as well. If the pushing strategies work on one occasion, food will be pushed on you again. So, if you want this to stop, at some point you need to take control.