Social Support: A Double-Edged Sword in Weight Loss
According to a recent study from the University of Surrey, your family and loved ones might unintentionally undermine your efforts to lose weight. This study adds to the increasing evidence indicating that social support isn’t always beneficial for health outcomes.
Upon reviewing various studies in this field, the researchers identified that social support can sometimes manifest negatively as sabotage, fostering unhealthy eating habits, or collusion, all of which can obstruct a person’s weight loss journey.
The Surrey team found acts of sabotage, discouraging healthy eating, and putting up barriers to attending support groups, often undermined an individual’s confidence and self-esteem, negatively impacting their attempts at weight loss.
Jane Ogden, Professor of Health Psychology and lead author of the study from the University of Surrey, said: “Weight loss often results in change, from giving a person more confidence to a change in social dynamics in their relationships. Many do not welcome such changes and may, consciously or subconsciously, try to derail a person’s attempts to lose weight in order to keep things the way they are.
“We need to explore this area further to develop interventions which could target family and friends and help them be more supportive in helping those they are close to lose weight.”
Closely linked to sabotage, researchers identified ‘being a feeder’ as a harmful form of social support. Although often done as a gesture of love or as a sign of wealth and status, researchers found that deliberately providing food when the person is not hungry or trying to eat less can be detrimental to weight management.
Interestingly, researchers also pinpointed collusion, which is often seen to reflect kindness and friendship, as a form of negative social support. Analyzing a number of studies, researchers found examples of family, friends, and partners colluding with those trying to lose weight through ‘going along’ with their behavior when it is not in line with their weight loss goals.
Professor Ogden added: “People pursue weight loss for a number of reasons, be it for their overall health or to feel better about themselves. Support from friends and family can be an invaluable tool in helping people achieve their goals however sometimes those closest to them thwart their efforts by tempting them with unhealthy food or acting as a barrier in helping them adopt a healthier lifestyle.”
Reference: “Sabotage, Collusion, and Being a Feeder: Towards a New Model of Negative Social Support and Its Impact on Weight Management” by Jane Ogden and Sophia Quirke-McFarlane, 7 June 2023, Current Obesity Reports.
DOI: 10.1007/s13679-023-00504-5
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1 Comment
It’s fascinating to learn about the study conducted by the University of Surrey, highlighting the potential negative impact of social support on weight loss efforts. This research brings to light the importance of understanding the dynamics of our relationships when it comes to achieving our health goals.
While it’s disheartening to hear that loved ones might unintentionally sabotage weight loss attempts, I believe it’s essential to stress the significance of prioritizing fitness and well-being. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is not just about physical appearance, but also about overall health and quality of life.
Being fit and active offers numerous benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases, increased energy levels, improved mood, and enhanced self-confidence. It’s about feeling strong, capable, and empowered to live life to the fullest.
To cultivate a supportive environment, it’s crucial to communicate with our loved ones and explain the reasons behind our commitment to fitness. Encouraging them to join in and participate in healthy activities can strengthen our bonds while fostering a shared sense of well-being.
Let’s remember that being fit is a journey, not a destination. It requires consistency, perseverance, and making sustainable lifestyle choices. By embracing regular exercise, mindful eating, and self-care, we can inspire those around us to prioritize their own health and well-being as well.
Ultimately, it’s about creating a culture of health and wellness within our social circles, where support, understanding, and encouragement prevail. Together, we can strive towards a healthier future and lead by example, inspiring others to embark on their own fitness journeys. just in case you still find it difficult to burn belly fat check out this new hack https://o-trim.co/nxL3zz