by Ann E. Smith

Created on: May 23, 2009   Last Updated: May 24, 2009

Weight loss is a goal of millions of people, with some achieving great success. But, as anyone with this goal can tell you, losing weight is a challenge and a journey.

Do you know someone who is trying to drop weight? Perhaps your spouse or best friend is trying to accomplish this outcome.

If so, how can you offer support? Below are some tips on how to help others with weight loss.

* Become an exercise buddy.

If someone you know is really trying to lose weight, then they likely will need to exercise more often. One great way you can assist this person with this effort is to offer to become their exercise buddy.

You can benefit from getting the exercise as well. If you are in shape and are diligent about jogging, then you can motivate your friend. If you are really into strength training, then you can work with your friend on weights and show him or her how to use various machines or free weights.

* Find things to do with your family member or friend that support their weight loss goals.

If your husband is on a diet, then perhaps you should curtail pizza night. Instead of ordering double pepperoni pizza on that evening, go to the movies. And eat a healthy meal at home before you go so you can resist the temptation of buttered popcorn.

People often socialize by eating and drinking, but it does not have to do that way. Go on hikes or walks in the park, as a way to spend time with your friend who is losing weight. Do not give your friend an excuse to break their diet, but instead find ways to enjoy being with them without fattening food.

* Be willing to listen and provide encouragement.

When someone is working to lose weight, they may go through some mood swings and experience unexpected emotions. Be willing to listen to your friend or loved one and to offer encouragement.

Sometimes others need you most for moral support, and you can easily provide that. When someone is going through life changes, they may need to take front stage for a while and demand a bit more attention than normal.

That is understandable. Try to remember that and to be as patient as you can. If advice is sought, be sure to give that as well. If weight management is easy for you, then you may be able to provide some very useful guidance.

* Do not help sabotage your friend's weight loss efforts.

Sometimes people just want to cave in, especially when dieting. It is your role to stand strong and not help sabotage a friend's weight loss efforts. Even if this person begs you to go get ice cream with them, kindly turn them down. They will appreciate it later, and you will be doing your part to be a good friend.

* Buy and prepare healthy foods.

If the person who is trying to lose weight is a family member, then you can be supportive by buying and preparing healthy foods. This is especially helpful if you are the primary person who cooks in the home. You can change some of your eating habits as well, so that the entire family is eating healthier foods.

These are but a few things you can do to support a friend or loved one who is trying to lose weight. While the task at hand is not an easy one, it can be done. And, you can help make that happen.

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