We might think that peer pressure is more of a teenage thing: try the cigarette, have the extra drink, drive that bit faster…

It can also pop up in a diet context, like when your friend is really pushing that brownie to go with your coffee, or your mum has made a dessert and will be visibly offended if you don’t eat it.

In this situation, it might be easier to put your own goals and priorities aside for a quiet life. But should you have to? 

If the pressure to have another slice gets a bit tiresome, this might help:

1. The only person genuinely affected by your food choices is you

2. If others feel bad eating cake when you’re not, it often says more about their own attitude to food: sharing a “naughty” treat makes it more acceptable

3.  Use the “maybe later” line – this is especially good with second helpings and desserts. As in “Ohhh, Aunty Barbara, that tiramisu looks incredible! I’m full at the moment but maybe later, thanks!”

As an intelligent adult, you get to choose what you eat and when. As long as your diet keeps you happy and healthy, it’s really no-one else’s business.