Many studies over the years have found that various types of counseling and support tend to support weight loss and maintenance. The 2009 study of weight loss programs in the New England Journal of Medicine continues to validate this finding.
Study participants (over 800 of them) lost an average of 9 lbs, or 7% of their body weight over the 2-year period. Time Magazine reported an interesting aspect of the study: People who attended at least 2/3 of the group or individual counseling sessions offered during the study, lost 2 1/2 times more weight--their average loss was 22 pounds.
This idea of expert, peer, or community support is a significant factor in successful weight loss. Again, though, this support can be secured in a way that meets your individual needs and conforms to your own style. Options include everything from losing weight with an "accountability partner" (a friend, family member, or colleague who you connect with to support your goals), attending group support meetings, seeking coaching or counseling from a trained professional, or even engaging in online support forums.
It doesn't matter how you gain support, it just matters that you do it in a way that helps create momentum and camaraderie, energy and accountability. So buddy up and watch your results--and your well-being--skyrocket!
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