Tell loved ones they are overweight this New Year.

06 Jan 2012

Really show a loved one you care this New Year - tell them they are overweight!

Health experts believe that the New Year is the perfect time to tell overweight loved ones that they need to make a change to their lifestyle.

For most of us, the subject of weight loss isn’t something we’re comfortable discussing with those closest to us.  A survey of more than 2,00 people found 42% of 18 to 24-year-olds would not tell a loved one they should lose weight because of a fear that they would hurt the other person’s feelings. According to the BBC, men find it harder to tell their partners to concentrate on their weight, while women are more worried about bringing the issue up with a friend.

So, how do you go about convincing a loved one to modify their way of life, without ending up a at marriage counselling sessions?

Words are all important. The phrase ‘you’re too fat’ should be avoided at all times. Try to empathise - you know this person well (which is why you’re broaching this subject) so think about how they might react to the situation and plan for this.

 Don’t expect your loved one to do it all by themselves – motivation and collaboration will be a driving force for change.  Start by encouraging someone close to you to make simple lifestyle changes, such as becoming more active, or join a local health club together.  Prof David Haslam, Chair of the National Obesity Forum, said “Simply suggesting to someone that they should consider losing a few pounds may not be a comfortable conversation to haveIdentifying for them that you’re concerned about their well-being, that you love them, and that you would really like to see what you can do to be of help to them.

Become a better influence; make small alterations to eating and drinking habits at home, such as buying the healthier option and cooking smaller portions. If this is not possible, try to encourage your loved one to join your own health drive to kick start the New Year- this will bring the focus off them and onto your own health.  If this fails to work, pluck up the courage to be honest and up front about your concerns for their weight.

The National obesity forum and International Chair on Cardiometabloic Risk said ‘it is important to be upfront because of health risks, by discussing the weight issues of your loved ones in a sensitive manor, it may be the encouragement they need to make life changing dietary decisions’.

Remember; make it very clear that your concerns are regarding their health. It’s nothing personal, so don’t make it look like criticism.If you can’t bring up the issue with loved ones, then who can?

Good Luck and Happy New Year.