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With the New Year approaching, but not quite here yet, I thought it a good time to chat about the science of using the buddy system for mastering goals and habits. Studies show that changing habits are hard for all of us, and that having a friend, coach or team to commit with dramatically increases success rates long term. Social Contagion of Obesity:
A 2007 study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that obesity spreads through social networks. If a friend becomes obese, your risk increases by 57%, even if they live far away. Among close mutual friends, the likelihood of weight gain rises to 171%.
People tend to mirror friends' eating and exercise habits, which can lead to shared weight gain or loss depending on the behavior. On the other hand: A 2011 study published in Health Psychology found that social support from friends significantly increases adherence to exercise routines. Those with supportive friends were 2.5 times more likely to meet their fitness goals. A 2019 study in the Journal of Nutrition revealed that people tend to align their food choices with those of their friends during shared meals. Friends who eat together often consume similar types and amounts of food, whether healthy or unhealthy. Programs like Weight Watchers or other group interventions leverage peer influence for accountability and motivation. Participants in these programs lose 5-10% more weight than those who try alone. Friends influence up to 70% of eating habits and 50% of activity choices. If you look around your friends and family groups, and they all have poor health, chances are high that you do also. Hiring a health coach can be incredibly beneficial for achieving weight loss and addressing other health goals. Health coaches provide personalized guidance, accountability, and expert strategies tailored to your unique needs. Studies show that individuals working with health coaches are 2-3 times more likely to achieve weight loss goals compared to those working alone. Coaching clients often maintain weight loss longer, thanks to focus on habit change rather than quick fixes. Coaching improves other health indicators like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Who Can Benefit? People Stuck in Cycles: Those who’ve tried diets or exercise programs but struggle to sustain them. Individuals Managing Chronic Conditions: Those with diabetes, hypertension, or joint issues who need tailored strategies. Busy Professionals: Coaches streamline plans to fit hectic lifestyles.
If you or someone you know struggles with their health, taking that first step to addressing those issues is easier with accountability. Send them my way! People that have lived with health issues a long time need the support and guidance of a professional to help them get started. Starting is often the most difficult part. Want a Deeper Dive? Here are some great links: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5536091/ https://www.apa.org/monitor/jan04/teaming For guidance on getting started, check out my link here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGZkoyCxXc/P5Zn_uF83rLwroevZFjHAA/view?utm_content=DAGZkoyCxXc&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h7ec7bb4567 To set up an appt. here is my link: https://calendly.com/angiesrealfood Have a question? Need a quick swap? Feel free to text me at 619-807-1387 For more info on packages and classes with Angie’s Real Food look here: https://angiesrealfood.com/
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