If your husband is overweight, it is not only a personal problem but a strain on the entire family. Overweight can shorten your spouse's life span and increase his chance for diabetes, heart attack and stroke. Convincing your husband to lose weight may not be simple if he is not motivated to lose the weight himself, but offering solid support, setting a good example and providing healthy meal options at home may help set him on the track to weight loss success.
Step 1
Ask your husband to lose weight as a favor to you. On couplescompany.com, Dr. Mark Goulston, assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA, suggests asking your spouse in a kind and gentle way about losing weight. Understand it is your husband's right to say no, but do not listen to excuses about why he doesn't want or need to lose weight.
Step 2
Lead by example. Your husband is unlikely to want to lose weight if the rest of your family continues eating unhealthy foods. Stock the refrigerator with healthy meal options like fish, poultry and tofu, as well as plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat fewer processed meals and lower your portion size, and your husband may follow suit.
Step 3
Project a positive attitude toward the situation. Avoid blaming or berating your husband for his eating habits. Even if he is sneaking food behind your back or making unhealthy choices, your negative attitude may discourage him from trying to lose weight.
Step 4
Use positive reinforcement. If your husband is taking steps to eat more healthfully and in moderation, praise his positive choices rather than scolding him for negative ones. By praising his good behaviors, you will make it more pleasurable for him to eat healthy foods.
Step 5
Plan outdoor activities that the whole family can do together. Instead of watching TV all weekend, plan strenuous activities like canoeing, hiking, playing basketball or bike riding. You will all spend more quality time as a family and also maintain a healthier weight.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult a doctor before starting a restrictive diet plan.
- Avoid fad diets, for examle diets that require you to eat the same foods at each meal.
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