Seems like June is a month filled with birthdays—and birthday parties. Several of my clients were born in June, and they are now fretting about birthday cake and other such treats, afraid they will overeat.

If weight is an issue for you, remember that you can enjoy the PEOPLE at the birthday party, and not just the cake. Too often, weight-conscious athletes pay too much attention to the food at the party, and fail to enjoy their friends.

Here are three tips for surviving social events that abound with tempting food.

1. Don’t arrive at the party feeling hungry. When you feel hungry, you are more likely to treat yourself to goodies “because you saved up calories.” My bet is, if you arrive hungry, you’ll not only eat—but you’ll overeat far more calories than you saved!

2. Eat a diet portion of whatever you want. The first three mouthfuls taste the best; savor those and don't feel the need to eat "the whole thing" just because it is there. Be aware of “last chance eating” (you know, last chance to eat cake, so I’d better eat another piece…”). Take that second piece home and enjoy it the next day, when your body is ready for some fuel.

3. Socialize away from the food. That is, don’t stand near the buffet table; find someplace where food is out of reach.

These tips work for any social event. Just remember to have fun enjoying the people, and put food at the bottom of the priority list.

Nancy