Will a support group help me lose weight?
-
Dr. Larry Cheskin of Johns Hopkins Medicine answered:It can definitely help. Studies have found that support from people sharing the same experience and struggles with the difficult talk of losing weight (and keeping it off) can enhance weight loss outcomes.
At the Johns Hopkins Weight Management Center, we encourage people joining our program to attend a weekly support group run by an experienced behavioral counselor and a dietitian.
This ensures that peer support, along with the expertise of our staff, is readily available to patients as they work their way through the changes needed to yield the best results.
Helpful? 1 person found this helpfulIt can definitely help. Studies have found that support from people sharing the same experience and struggles with the difficult talk of losing weight (and keeping it off) can enhance weight loss outcomes. At the Johns Hopkins Weight... More -
National Academy of Sports Medicine answered:Support groups are a great system to use while trying to lose weight. Support groups can be family, friends, or a local walking club. It is always beneficial to surround yourself with like-minded people working towards a similar goal especially when it is something which requires a significant amount of discipline such as losing weight. Members of support groups have often already tackled some of the same things you are going through. They understand why you are doing what you are doing, and this experience can be used as great guidance through the tough times when you may want to give up. Accountability is also a big factor when it comes to support groups. It is usually very important to each member that every other member reach their goals. If you’re feeling down and depressed one day, there is a good chance a member of a support group will give you the motivation you need to get out the door and go to the gym.Helpful? 1 person found this helpfulSupport groups are a great system to use while trying to lose weight. Support groups can be family, friends, or a local walking club. It is always beneficial to surround yourself with like-minded people working towards a similar goal... More -
Amy Colgan-Niemeyer answered:Absolutely. The more people you can surround yourself with who know what you're going through, the better. Whether it's family, friends, coworkers, exercise group, Overeater's Anonymous group, or some combination of these and others, go for it. Seek out people who will be there for you when you can't seem to take one more step on the treadmill or if you cheat on your diet. Seek out those who support your decision to lose weight and adopt a healthy lifestyle. It's up to you to make the changes in your eating and exercise habits to make the weight come off, but a support group can help you stay motivated on your weight loss journey.Helpful? 1 person found this helpfulAbsolutely. The more people you can surround yourself with who know what you're going through, the better. Whether it's family, friends, coworkers, exercise group, Overeater's Anonymous group, or some combination of these and others, go... More
