Help what to do about co-workers and pot lucks

livestar

On occaison I'll skip the potluck altogether, but it is difficult to avoid the social aspect of it. I'll sign up to bring something that I know I will eat, usually some sort of protein or stand alone dish. I will then eat that, and possibly any other clearly healthy options (e.g. salad, vegetable soup, fruit). This way I am in full control of what I'm eating, and I know exactly what I am putting into my body, but I don't have to worry about offending anyone by not participating. I pack enough additional snacks to round out my lunch in the event that I only eat the dish that I brought.
I don't have any issues as far as feeling pressured to eat food that I don't want. Early on I was asked a few times, I've politely refused, and everyone I work with has been pretty accepting. Be firm but polite, and consistent.

For the serious bad food pushers, you might consider telling them you have a very sensitive stomach and are avoiding things ____ (cheese, grease, sugar, etc) so you don't get sick. That usually neutralizes them as pushing=sickness.

^^^^^THIS! The only way to do it.