The Importance of Having a Support System for Weight Loss
Is it time to begin your weight loss journey?
Whether you’re looking to boost your confidence, feel more comfortable or improve your health, taking the first step toward weight loss and healthier living is an important one. While this journey can look different for everyone, it’s no secret that it can come with hurdles and frustration. That’s where having a strong support system can really help.
In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at what a support system for weight loss looks like, the benefits of having support and how to build your team.
What is a Support System?
Even while on a similar journey, no two support systems will look the exact same.
Your support system is exactly as it sounds, a person or multiple people who are there to support and guide you through your transition to a healthier lifestyle. For some, it may be friends or family members, while others may find more success through a weight loss support group or monitored program.
Your support system can be as involved as you need, providing you with guidance, advice and even helping you navigate certain triggers or cravings. They can help to provide you with the motivation needed to cook healthier meals, get active regularly and even manage your stress.
The Benefits of Having a Support System
There are many benefits of having a support system throughout your weight loss journey - and beyond!
In-Person or Virtual
No matter where or when you need your support system, there are many ways to connect. Many weight loss programs will offer an app or other method where you can connect virtually. This approach is often more convenient, effective and comfortable - especially for those of us with busier schedules or who are spending more time at home these days.
Alternatively, if you benefit more from in person support, there is always the option to go for a walk with a friend, enjoy self-care with a family member or attend a support group meeting.
No matter your needs or preferences, your support system can offer a flexible, convenient and reliable approach to the guidance and motivation that you need.
Emotional Support & Stress Management
Throughout your weight loss journey, there may be times where you have emotions to process. Whether it’s frustration while curbing cravings or disappointment during a plateau, your support system can help you through it.
With help from your support system, you can also better navigate feelings of stress.
In fact, the 2015 Stress in America study by the American Psychological Association found that the average stress level for a person with emotional support was 5 out of 10, while a person without support was 6.3 out of 10.
They can provide you with a shoulder to lean on as you work through your emotions and create a plan for success. Not only that, but they can also provide you with guidance and advice as you make the necessary changes to your lifestyle and work towards your goals. They might even help you along the way by getting involved, too!
Extra Motivation
Have you ever planned to exercise or cook a healthy meal, only to feel unmotivated when the time comes to begin?
With help from a weight loss support system, you can rely on another person to help you find your motivation once more and work toward your goals. Whether it be having another person with you at the gym or to swap recipes with, the right support system can help you in more ways than one.
Different Perspectives
Have you reached a plateau? Having trouble getting started or setting attainable goals? Your support system can help you work through the issue at hand by providing you with a different perspective.
If you need another person to bounce an idea off of or to simply listen to the problem you’re facing, a support system can help with troubleshooting. They may be able to provide you with a different perspective that allows you to approach the issue, step or goal from another direction.
Knowledge & Learning
Whether your support system is composed of friends, family members, colleagues, members from a support group, a dietician, or an expert-led weight loss program, chances are they will be able to provide you with helpful information and resources.
Your support system likely either has experience with their own weight loss or education in health and wellness, making them the perfect resource for knowledge and learning opportunities throughout your journey.
If you are having trouble with a certain area of your weight loss, they may be able to help you troubleshoot a solution through research and education. For instance, incorporating certain healthy foods in your diet to help satisfy your hunger and help you stay feeling full for longer.
Building Your Team
Could you benefit from a strong support system throughout your weight loss journey? Here are some ideas to help you get started:
Speak with family members and friends who have navigated their own weight loss journey or who are looking to get started. They may have some insight to help you get started, advice along the way or offer a shoulder to lean on. You can even provide them with support and encouragement along the way!
Talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the best way to get started, based on your current state of health. Not only that, but they can also help you set goals and even get in touch with other healthcare professionals, such as a dietician.
Join a medically-supervised weight loss program. A team of professionals can help you take a customized and scientifically-driven approach to your weight loss and overall healthy lifestyle. Lose the weight and keep it off for good, in a way that supports your best health - inside and out.
Coaching & Medicine
Is it time to make a lasting change? Take a healthy and supported approach to your weight loss with help from our team of professionals at Coaching & Medicine. We dig deep, taking a closer look at your physical, mental and emotional health, as we help you along your weight loss journey.
To learn more about us, our process and the programs available to you, contact us today! We will gladly help you get started and take the first step toward the rest of your life.
