Dear Prudence,
I like to host gatherings at my house a few times a year—think, BBQs in the spring/summer and informal dinners in the colder months. My long-time friend “Erin” almost always attends. About one-and-a-half years ago, Erin, following a doctor’s advice, went on a slightly restrictive diet to see if it helped with some medical issues she was having. I had plans to host a dinner a few weeks after she began this, but I was happy to make accommodations. Then, in the weeks and months that followed, she began modifying this diet—adding back certain things and taking away others. I learned that this was not on the advice of the doctor, but rather, her own internet research.
I have had two more parties since, and for each one, I had to check with Erin to see what her latest “diet” was. Now, I plan to host again for a couple of weeks, and Erin, of course, has new restrictions—things like, she can’t eat certain vegetables because they cause inflammation. I’m about ready to tell Erin she has to bring her own food. This just seems absurd to me. She’s not getting actual medical advice anymore, she’s doing her own thing. I think I’ve already been more than understanding, but how much longer do I have to keep catering to Erin’s imaginary needs?
—What’s Next?