How Others Impact Your Weight

Many years ago, Simon & Garfunkel sung, "I am a rock. I am an island." However, this isn't necessarily true where weight is concerned. Our weight (as well as weight gain & loss) can be heavily influenced by our friends, family, co-workers, etc. Check out these articles to see how the effect can be positive or negative:
- NPR's Gain Together, Lose Together: The Weight Loss Halo Effect
- The Daily Texan's Study Reveals Weight Loss Could Negatively Impact Relationships
- Psychology Today's Are Your Friends Making You Fat?

When those around you are less excited about your healthier lifestyle, it's easy for motivation to waiver. So, be prepared with polite, assertive ways to respond. Sample scenarios could include eating out with co-workers, a food-pushing family member, or a spouse who's encouraging you to watch TV instead of being active. Remembering why you've chosen these habits can help steady your resolve. Keep reading for more tips!
- WebMD's How Couples Can Team up to Get Healthy
- American Council on Exercise's Is Peer Pressure Leading You to Make Poor Food Choices?
- NOLA.com's How Do You Deal With the Peer Pressure to Eat Poorly?