DEAR ABBY: I come from a family of big eaters who are not very health-conscious. They pride themselves on being exceptional cooks, and most of them are overweight.
Being younger and more active, I am thinner than most of my family members. I made a conscious choice to research weight loss and exercise so I could maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, this has caused my family to react with annoyance and hostility. They call me a "food snob" when I warn them about the risks they are taking with their food choices.
When I ask my broth er to drive me to a local track or swimming pool, he acts as if what I'm asking is ridiculous and stupid. What can I do to stop the condescending stares, snide remarks and enmity? -- LOOKING OUT FOR MYSELF IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR LOOKING OUT: You deserve praise for "swimming against the tide" and changing your eating and exercise habits. It isn't easy to do when those around you are indulging in their "vices."
Please realize the path to clean and healthy living is one that each person must take individually. Every time you "warn" your family about their "risky" eating habits, it appears to them that you are being critical, and that is why they're reacting the way they do. Be less "helpful," and they will be less defensive.