There’s no way politicians are not going to gain weight with that lifestyle, said Lise Gloede, a Virginia-based nutritionist.

When they’re not campaigning with food, they’re on the road in the American heartland, which doesn’t really have a lot of healthy options, she added. Plus, eating like the people whose votes they want is a great way to connect. The sad truth is “Most Americans don’t eat healthy,” Gloede said.

So, how to navigate the daily food challenges while avoiding appearing aloof and disconnected from the people whose votes you covet?

“Order a small,” says Gloede’s. Take a few bites. Shake some hands. Get outtta there before another slice of pizza is forced onto you. Take refuge on the bus, where you’ve deployed an intern to stock it full of water and fruit.