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| How to Find Support for Healthy Lifestyle Changes |
One of the best ways to stay on track with your healthy lifestyle is to tell your friends and family about your weight loss and health goals (and why you’re striving for them). If your family and friends know you’re trying to eat healthier options, such as whole grains instead of refined carbohydrates, they may try to be more supportive.
Family and friends can also be a great support team when you’re trying to include more physical activity in your daily routine. So ask around. Maybe a friend would love to walk with you in the mornings, or perhaps your kids would love to kick the soccer ball around together at night. Finding a consistent exercise partner helps to make you more accountable as well.
Bringing in professional help
Sometimes you need more than just the support of your friends and family to be successful. In these cases, you may find that professional help is just what you need to achieve and, most importantly, maintain your health and weight goals.
For example, if you’re struggling with eating due to emotional reasons rather than hunger, speaking to a licensed mental health provider can be a great way to learn strategies to fight emotional eating. And if you need help customizing your meal plan to meet specific dietary or medical needs or help finding motivation to get started with a weight loss and fitness routine, consulting with a registered dietitian, such as myself, is your best option.
To find a qualified health professional, ask your primary care physician for referrals, contact your insurance carrier for a list of names of in-network providers in your area, or look online in healthcare provider directories for someone who specializes in your needs.
Getting online weight loss support
Finding support doesn’t mean you have to leave the comfort of your own home. You can find plenty of motivation and advice online. For instance, you can find many great low-cost or no-cost communities online that allow you to talk with other folks striving to lose weight and improve their health. This type of forum can be a great way to share tips, gain motivation, and foster support.
