We’ve all been there at some point – looking in the mirror and thinking, “I could stand to lose some weight.” With New Year’s resolutions set and ready to go, you or someone you know could be planning to lose a few pounds in 2017.
Support is one of the most important pieces to successful weight loss.
If you hear a loved one talking about dropping excess weight next year, here are a few ways you can encourage a healthy change:
- Discuss why a healthy lifestyle is important.
Sharing feelings like “I care about you and want you to live a healthy life” or mentioning how following a healthy diet can stave off serious health problems can be very effective ways to help a person stick with a lifestyle change. High blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, bone loss and cancer are scary! Almost all prevention plans for these health problems involve eating a healthy diet and being physically active.
- Lead by example.
It’s easier to walk the walk when you have a friend along for the ride. You can make a goal to try to cook and enjoy a healthy meal together twice a week or decide to prepare at least two vegetables with your evening meals.
- Make simple goals together.
Go grocery shopping together for healthy foods. Bundle up and take a brisk walk after dinner or hit the mall for a few laps. Suggest that you both do something simple, like eat oatmeal or whole-grain cereal for breakfast in place of that fast-food breakfast sandwich or calorie and fat-laden coffee drink.
- Just ask. Being there for your loved one can be as simple as asking what you can do to support his weight loss. Find out what she thinks is the hardest thing about eating healthy. By understanding his biggest obstacles, you may discover how you can help him overcome these hurdles.
