Why Social Support Is Key for Weight Loss, and Where to Find It

Healthy eating and exercise are a big part of your weight loss plan, but there is a third (very important) factor that you may miss. It’s social support.

While these are underrated weight loss tools, social support systems and programs can have a greater impact on successful weight loss than you might think.

To be precise, learn how social support can help you reach your goals and where you can find them.

One of the biggest benefits of having a social support system is motivation. The progress of weight loss is not always linear (you can lose pounds in a week, but only get it back in two weeks).

Knowing that you have friends and communities in your corner can help you keep moving toward your goals, especially when you’re discouraged. Dr. Fatima Cordy Stanford, MD, Ph.D., a physician and scientist in obesity medicine, told LIVESTRONG.com.

“Social support tells individuals that they are not alone,” she says. “Many of my obese patients often feel lonely, even though obesity is the most common chronic illness of our time. No one should feel lonely.”

The people around you may have a greater impact on your progress than you would expect. In general, people who start weight loss programs with friends have been successful in achieving their goals and maintaining progress, according to an old but still-cited study of February 1999.[Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology​](Https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1999-00242-015).

February 2016 surveyChildhood obesityI had similar results. Relying on the encouragement of her family and friends, the adolescent woman succeeded in achieving her weight loss goal.

Social support systems come in a variety of forms, including friends and family, apps, and community-based programs (see below for details). Different systems work for different people, but they all provide a source of accountability, which can be a great source of encouragement.

People with accountability partners and programs are usually better able to reach their goals, says Dr. Stanford. Whether you’re reporting to your friends weekly or checking your goals in the app, having an accountable system keeps you moving toward your goals.

According to Dr. Stanford, external resources will also teach you how to better handle and navigate bumps that you may encounter on the road. As mentioned earlier, progress is not always linear, and in some cases you may not know the solution when a setback occurs.

But having a community means solving problems together. Maybe others have encountered the same problem and could suggest a solution that worked for them.

Similarly, most apps and digital programs have pages of information, tips and tricks to make your weight loss journey a little easier.

Before starting testing various systems, Dr. Stanford recommends considering whether external support is optimal. Social support can help you reach your goals, but it’s not for everyone, it’s not the only successful strategy. Some people like to reach their goals alone, but that’s perfectly fine. Alternatively, we recommend starting alone and contacting support after a few months. Conclusion: It’s a completely personal decision.

However, if you decide to try a social support program or system, there are several ways to try it.

Your personal relationship plays a major role in your overall well-being, and it involves navigating weight loss, says Dr. Stanford. More specifically, long-term support is often needed to reach milestones.

In many cases, friends and family may be able to provide all the support you need for your journey. However, that does not mean that all relationships are ideal in this context. After all, you want support from someone you can trust and you can rely on when things get difficult — and encourage who keeps your progress.

Think of friends and family who are willing to have an open conversation about your weight loss goals. Whether you’re discussing progress at a weekly meeting or sending a daily text message, we’ll work together to set expectations. This is a personal preference, but the important thing is to find a positive understanding of each other.

There are many weight loss programs out there, but that doesn’t mean they’re all positive or provide the social support you’re looking for. These are some options you can consider:

WW (formerly Weight Watchers), a digital program that you can buy online and use on your mobile phone or computer, is a personalized weight loss plan that helps you change your lifestyle, not just reach your scale goals. ..

When it comes to social support, WW has a large online community via social platforms such as Facebook and Instagram where you can stay in touch with other users and look up company information posts.

Noom started as a weight loss program, but has grown into a larger wellness system and community. Noom connects you with a real human coach that best suits your health goals. Based on your goals and availability, you and your coach will set up the best program for you, including regular check-ins.

Noom also has group coaches and peer groups for those who need a more community-style support system.

..Obesity Behavior Association..

The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is an online program dedicated to teaching users more about the science of weight and obesity. But this platform isn’t just educational. OAC also has an entire community of people who are trying to connect and support others on their way to better health.

OAC has community blogs and forums that you can use to struggle and progress with others on a similar path.

For those who don’t need a pre-established weight loss program, the app is a great way to track your progress and connect with other users.

..LIVESTRONG.com’s MyPlate..

With the MyPlate app, you can track your diet and calories, record your workouts, and get inspiration from a community of enthusiastic users who support each other. Members can share success stories, exchange tricks and tips, and upload progress photos with this easy-to-use app.

lose! Is an app that allows you to set weight loss and nutrition goals, track your diet, and monitor your progress. There is also an entire digital community where you can get support, participate in various health and fitness challenges, and ask questions.

With this calorie tracking app, you can set nutritional goals and track daily calories, major nutrients, and micronutrients. The app also has a message board where you can post meal photos, ask questions, and exchange advice with other users.

Fitbit is best known for its step tracking capabilities. Of course, you can use it without the actual Fitbit wearable. You can use this app to track your exercise progress and body statistics (such as weight), but it also has some great community features.

The app allows you to connect with friends and family, send motivational messages to each other, and participate in group challenges.