Health Conditions
Talking to a family member or friend about losing weight can be hard. Use these tips to start the conversation.
Start by saying, “I care about you.”
- “You're important to me, and I want you to be around for a long time.”
- “I want you to have more energy and not worry about your health. That’s why I want to help you reach a healthy weight.”
- “I’m here for you. Let’s make healthy changes together.”
Share what has worked for others.
Here are some ideas for losing weight in a healthy way:
- Set manageable goals — start by trying to lose about 1 to 2 pounds each week.
- Start a food diary to keep track of what and how much you eat and drink.
- Eat a healthy breakfast every day.
- Serve yourself smaller portions.
- Drink water instead of sugary drinks like soda or energy drinks.
- Do something active every day —take the stairs, go for a walk at lunch, or enjoy a family bike ride.
- Join a walking club or support group to keep you motivated.
If you havefriends, family members, or co-workers who have lost weight by eating healthy and getting active, ask them to share what worked for them.
Do more than talk.
Find ways to get active and eat healthy together. Here are some ideas:
- Go food shopping together. Use the Nutrition Facts label to find foods and drinks that are low in added sugars and saturated fats.
- If you go out to eat, split a meal or save half to take home.
- Go for a walk every day or take an exercise class together.
- Celebrate your loved one’s weight loss — but avoid using food as a reward.
Content last updated July 21, 2023
Reviewer Information
This information on losing weight was adapted from materials from the National Institutes of Health Weight-control Information Network (WIN).
Reviewed by:
Dennis Anderson-Villaluz, MBA, RD, LDN, FAND
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Public Health Service
Nutrition Advisor, Division of Prevention Science
Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Kara Beckman, PhD
ORISE Nutrition Policy Fellow
Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Dana DeSilva
ORISE Health Policy Fellow
Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
For more information on healthy weight loss, visit:
I am a health and wellness enthusiast with a deep understanding of various topics related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. My knowledge is grounded in evidence-based information, and I strive to provide valuable insights to help individuals make informed decisions about their well-being.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about talking to a family member or friend about losing weight and adopting a healthier lifestyle. The key points revolve around initiating a sensitive conversation, offering support, and sharing practical tips for achieving weight loss in a sustainable and healthy manner. The article draws from reputable sources, specifically materials from the National Institutes of Health Weight-control Information Network (WIN).
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Initiating the Conversation: The article emphasizes the importance of approaching the topic with care. Expressing genuine concern and love is crucial. Phrases like "I care about you," "You're important to me," and "I want you to be around for a long time" create a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere.
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Providing Support: The article suggests offering assistance and being a source of motivation. Phrases such as "I'm here for you" and "Let's make healthy changes together" convey a sense of partnership in the journey towards better health.
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Sharing Success Stories: Practical tips for weight loss are reinforced by sharing what has worked for others. This includes setting manageable goals, maintaining a food diary, and adopting healthier eating habits.
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Practical Tips for Healthy Weight Loss: The article provides actionable steps for achieving weight loss in a healthy way. These include setting realistic goals, keeping a food diary, having a healthy breakfast, controlling portion sizes, choosing water over sugary drinks, and incorporating daily physical activity.
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Social Support: Encouraging social support is a key aspect. Joining walking clubs or support groups can help individuals stay motivated and share experiences with others on a similar journey.
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Activities for Healthy Living: The article suggests practical activities for getting active and eating healthy together. This includes going food shopping together, using nutrition labels, sharing meals when dining out, engaging in regular walks or exercise classes, and celebrating weight loss achievements without using food as a reward.
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Source and Review Information: The article cites its source as the National Institutes of Health Weight-control Information Network (WIN) and provides reviewer information, adding credibility to the information presented.
For more detailed information on healthy weight loss, the article directs readers to additional resources, including the "Aim for a Healthy Weight: Guide to Behavior Change" and "Health Tips for Adults." These resources are likely to offer more comprehensive guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
