healthy habits

Photo: Geber86/istockphoto

6 of 8
Find a community of straight talkers

Weight loss is hard, and support will make it easier. Family and friends can be great people to lean on, says Jennifer McDaniel, RDN, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, but watch out for those who aren't really looking out for you (like the friend who's always encouraging you to "have just one more" of everything). The best bet may be to reach out to people who are also trying to lose weight. Bartolome Burguera, MD, leads weight-loss groups at the Cleveland Clinic and notes that "the success that happens here isn't because of the doctors, it's because of the support that the group provides" and that patients are always sharing honest advice about what's worked for them and what hasn't.

Find a community of people with whom you can share your weight-loss journey. Lots of food-tracking and weight-loss apps include ways to connect with other users, or ask your doctor if their office ever organizes get-togethers for patients trying to lose weight.