Weight loss is a trying and difficult journey. Whether you’re looking
to lose a little bit of weight or getting ready to undergo
weight reduction surgery, you need a support system. Support systems give you the tools you need
for success, from motivation to advice. They are something every successful
person uses when they are trying to accomplish a difficult task or make
it through a tough time.
Types of Weight Loss Support Groups
Informal Programs
There are many types of weight loss support programs out there. First, there are
informal commercial programs, like Weight Watchers. They utilize discussion groups and homework, including
keeping a food diary. Some groups like Weight Watchers also offer online
weight loss support forums and tools. These programs tend to be very successful
when compared to going it alone, making them a great option for many people.
Medical Support Clinics
Medical support clinics are another type of program. They’re usually
held at universities or medical centers. They’re run by a set of
professionals, including nutritionists, psychologists, and other medical
experts that can help with weight loss. They only last a designated number
of weeks and include one-on-one interactions. They boast great success,
but you may need another type of support group to keep you on track after
this one is done.
Behavior Modification
This is another program offered for weight loss. A common one is called
the Trevose Behavior Modification Program, and it was founded in 1970.
These programs are free and managed by volunteers. The program has strict
requirements, like mandatory weekly meetings and weight loss goals participants
must meet. If group members don’t meet the requirements, they could
be kicked out. Some studies have found this method extremely effective.
Social Support
These groups traditionally have focused on picking up after the formal
treatment groups end. Other forms of social support are participating
in a formal or informal support program or exercise program with a friend
for additional support or finding other ways to get friends and family
involved in your effort to help propel you toward better success.
Ways to Get Support Every Day
Treatment programs don’t last forever and, even if they did, you
don’t spend every minute of the day there. It’s important
to have support at home and in the community to stay on track with your
goals. Is there someone in your life who would make a great workout buddy
or someone who has achieved his or her own weight loss goals? Look at
the people in your life and choose a few people who seem like they would
be great supporters.
Having a motivator, a coach, or a workout buddy is great, but having some
help in your home is important, too. Enlist the help of your partner and
anyone else you live with. Ask them to eat healthfully with you or get
active with you. Ask the members of your household to respect you and
keep tempting foods out of site. Engage everyone in keeping you motivated
and on track. Having this social support will be key to reaching your
weight loss objectives.
Weight Loss Options
Knowing you need support is the first step. The second step is figuring
out the weight loss option that’s right for you. There are both
surgical and non-surgical options available. There are weight training
programs, pills, fitness classes, and medically assisted programs, to
name a few. You can go it alone or work with a group. If you have trouble
deciding on what’s right for you or have tried to lose weight in
the past without success, you should consult with a physician to see what’s
right for you.
Call us at (281) 888-7767 to learn more about our medical weight loss options!
Sources
- http://www.skinnybetty.com/support-system-helps-lose-fat/
- http://www.dianecarbonell.com/importance-of-a-healthy-support-system-in-weight-loss/