Getting the support you need to lose weight

Congratulations! You’ve finally made the decision to start your diet today. Or you might have already gone through the first hurdle of losing the weight, but now need to worry about keeping those pounds off forever. Don’t despair about the long journey ahead! Think of it this way—weight-loss is just another one of those obstacles that life throws your way. And just like any other snag in the road, it’s much easier to overcome if you have the proper support system cheering you on from the side-lines.

One of the best ways to gain strength from numbers is to grab a “diet buddy” who shares your same goals. Experts agree that planning meals and work-out times is all well and good, but the people who do end up winning the battle of the budge are those who buddy- up to resist temptation and keep each other on track. In fact, one study on weight-loss found that people who had the support of friends were more likely to keep those pounds off after a 6-month period and less likely to give up on a weight-loss program.

The thing to remember is that having proper support doesn’t necessarily mean that you need someone to drag you out to the gym and monitor every bite you take. Emotional support can sometimes be the best kind—there’s noting like having a friend or family member boost you up when you’re feeling discouraged. Support can also be practical, like having a friend baby-sit your kids while you hit the gym or having a dietician to help you plan your meals.

Want some more ideas how to get motivated from your family, friends, and co-workers? Check these out:

Ask for help! This is a big one. Describe your plans, goals, and obstacles to your family and friends. Don’t forget to explain how important their support is to your weight-loss success because we all know how much joy mothers derive from serving you extra helpings at dinner.

Just say NO! Speaking of those extra portions, the people who care most about you are sometimes just not helpful to in your quest to lose weight. Explain to the people who are constantly shoving food in your face (you know the type) that you need their help to stay healthy.

Recruit for the cause! Don’t be afraid to speak up about the health benefits of losing weight. If your friends and family join you in your quest to get regular exercise and eat healthier, chances are that you’ll become even more motivated to stick to your weight-loss plan.