Lose the Weight, Not Your Mate

One of the biggest challenges in a relationship can be when a partner struggles with weight gain.  There are some key things you can do to support your partner while he or she works to drop the pounds.  Here are the do’s and don’ts of partner weight loss:

Do:

1. Be kind.  If you know your mate has a weakness for ice cream or some other fatty food, make sure it’s out of the house, except for an occasional indulgence.
2. Pay attention to your partner’s efforts at weight loss and be his/her cheerleader, even if there is an occasional slip.  Notice what he or she is doing right rather than wrong.
3. Encourage exercising together or going to the gym at the same time.  It shows support.
4. If your mate is busy and tends to eat fast food, put the effort into making his or her lunch.
5. Make your partner’s health be your desire for weight loss rather than appearance.  As your mate drops the pounds, notice his or her appearance, but emphasize the health benefits.

Don’t:

1. Don’t sabotage your mate’s efforts by using tempting language, such as “Come on.  It’s just one piece.”
2. Don’t insist that junk food be kept in the house jut because you can eat it without weight gain.
3. Don’t be a “helicopter partner” and hover over your mate while he/she is on the scale.  Back off and give the person space.

To learn more concrete ideas on how to support your partner in weight loss, click here.