How to Convince Someone to Lose Weight

More than one-third of U.S. adults are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, making it likely that you have a friend or family member with a weight problem. Ultimately, the motivation to lose weight has to come from the person doing the work; however, if you’re concerned about a loved one’s weight, employing a number of tactics could encourage them to take the first step toward weight loss.

Share statistics correlating weight and disease. For example, more than 80 percent of people with Type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese, according to ObesityInAmerica.org. Those who are overweight or obese also have a higher risk of heart disease – leading to heart attacks, congestive heart failure, sudden cardiac death, angina and abnormal heart rhythms. For women, particularly those concerned with bearing children, being overweight or obese drastically increases the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome.

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Make a doctor’s appointment. Sometimes, hearing the health complications of obesity can have more of an impact coming from a medical professional. A physician can also check for health conditions that may be related to or causing a weight problem, as well as recommend a healthy weight-loss plan to follow.

Appeal to his budget. If health and aesthetics don’t make a difference, perhaps learning that those who are obese spend more on health care than those who are a normal weight will. According to a study in “Health Affairs” published in 2009, obese people spent an average of $1,429 more per year on medical care than those at a normal weight.

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Provide a support system. It’s hard to lose weight, so offer to join your friend or family member in her efforts. If you live in the same household, cook healthy meals together, so the person trying to lose weight doesn’t feel punished or like he has to eat sub-par food. Make dates to hit the gym together, providing your friend a spotter when lifting weights. Check in every couple days to see where you both are succeeding or struggling and work together to find a solution to your challenges.

Warnings

Discourage the use of fad diets, extremely low-calorie diets or excessive physical activity as a way to lose weight.

People who have a body mas index of 40 or more or have 80 to 100 pounds to lose should always see a doctor before embarking on a weight-loss program.