The perennial battle of the bulge

I just read Susan Spano’s lament about gaining weight while on the road [“When Blini Are Involved, Dieting Takes a Holiday,” Her World, Nov. 20]. The problem is not what she eats; it is that she doesn’t know when to stop.

I travel often on business and pleasure and follow some simple rules. Enjoy the local cuisine, but never eat out of desperation. Don’t try to quell hunger with empty calories; I won’t die if I stay hungry a few hours longer until I can enjoy the kind of meal that makes me happy. Take along healthful food, like fruit and nuts, for those situations. Plan to have meals of the highest quality at your destination. And quit kidding yourself about not sticking to a fad diet. Weight gain happens only when calories in are more than calories out.

BERNARD ROTH

Santa Barbara

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I really enjoyed Susan Spano’s article on eating on the road. I like her style of writing and humor.

I could identify with her. I travel a lot. I enjoy walking and using the metro in many countries. It’s a great way to lose weight, yet I love to try the local food. It’s exciting and frustrating (food and guilt).

KARINE ARMEN

Glendale