Healthy eating: Getting support when changing your eating habits

Why do you need support?

Temptation is everywhere when you try to change your eating behavior. It's in your fridge, at the convenience store, and in the office break room. It's at family get-togethers.

In this culture, there is always something to eat, and there is always an occasion to eat in a way that's less healthy. This makes it easy to get away from your eating plan.

Your family and friends can make things easier. Their support can help you feel as though you're not alone. Their words of encouragement can motivate you and help you make healthy food choices. A word from them can help you stop eating before you feel stuffed. If you've slipped away from your eating plan, your family and friends can help get you back on track.

Support works. Research shows that getting support from spouses, family members, and friends is important in making behavior changes that affect health.^{1, 2}

Test Your Knowledge

1. You need support because:

1. It can encourage and motivate you.
2. It works.

Continue to How can your family and friends help you?
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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: February 6, 2009
Medical Review:	Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Diabetes Educator
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