That’s What Friends Are For

By: Scottsdale Weight Loss Center
Published: October 4, 2012
Two plus-size women celebrating after a run.

“I get by with a little help from my friends.” – The Beatles

When building your support system, your weight loss doctor and the members of medical weight loss team will be important, but you shouldn’t stop there. We thrive on positive interactions with those we spend time with, from our closest friends to little-known acquaintances. To really make the most of your medical weight loss experience, you’ll need to make as many of these people into allies as possible.

Build Your Support System for Medical Weight Loss in Phoenix and Scottsdale

When you first begin medical weight loss in Phoenix and Scottsdale, you’ll need to have a frank discussion with those who regularly influence your diet and exercise habits. This is especially important for those you share a home with—like whoever does the grocery shopping for your family—but you may also need to have this talk with coworkers and friends you often spend time with.

The vast majority of those who care about you will be eager to help you achieve your goals and may just be waiting for you to broach the subject. Understand that weight loss is often a touchy topic and your loved ones may be hesitant to assist before you invite them to. Politely ask them for their help by explaining the things they can do to help you.

Make it easy on your loved ones by asking them to help in simple ways, like:

  • Keeping healthy foods around the house
  • Exercising with you
  • Joining you for a healthy, home-cooked meal

You should also highlight the things they’ve already been doing to help you. For example, if your spouse goes on walks with you each evening, tell him or her how beneficial this is for you and how much you appreciate it.

Of course, you’ll also need to talk about the things your loved ones do that may not be helping your medical weight loss plan. Suppose a friend of yours often makes irresistible chocolate chip cookies—you don’t have to ask her to stop baking, but may want to ask her to stop offering them to you or placing them in easily accessible areas. Those close to you will likely be surprised that their actions have had a negative effect on you and may gladly work to make that influence more positive.

How else can we find support from our friends and family members during medical weight loss? Share your tips, experiences and questions with us in the comments below.

Reviews

Excellent rating
Based on 418 reviews
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Great place 30 lbs.and counting thank you And now it is over 40 lbs. and counting thank you great job
John Janovic profile picture
John J
8 days ago
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Best of the best - Dr. Z !!
Mar S profile picture
Mar S
12 days ago
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The Biltmore location is top notch! Everyone there is so very friendly, professional and makes the experience so personal and easy. Highly recommend!
sue McKone profile picture
Sue M
14 days ago
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This practice is everything you would want from a physician office. Professional and knowledgeable staff and caring providers 10 stars!!!!
Lisa Young profile picture
Lisa Y
20 days ago
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Everything perfect
Andi Kate profile picture
Andi K
26 days ago
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I landed at Scottsdale Weight Loss 13 years ago and lost 50 pounds….regained 10 and then lost them again, plus another 20. It is a great program, and all the professionals are amazing and caring.
MJ Wilcox profile picture
Mj W
32 days ago
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SWL has been a God send to me! Dr. Guzman & staff especially Lilia & Bianca! They’re so supportive & professional I have lost approx 50 pounds over the year at my own pace.
Donna L profile picture
Donna L
34 days ago
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I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr Robert Ziltzer! He helped me reach my ideal weight and more importantly maintain it for over 2 years. He has also helped me keep my blood pressure exactly where my internist wanted it. Dr Ziltzer is not only exceptional in weight management but also a truly gifted internet’s. His knowledge, kindness, and dedication are remarkable. I am deeply grateful for his care and recommend him whole heartedly!
Merle Shapiro profile picture
Merle S
57 days ago
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The staff at the Phoenix office are great! My experience with Dr deGuzman has been wonderful. Miriam has always been very helpful and makes the office visits pleasant and personal. The medical assistants have always been professional and great to help meet my goals.
Paula Stiles profile picture
Paula S
60 days ago
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I really felt comfortable with Kristen at my initial appointment. Everyone at the center was caring and friendly, from Bianca, at the front desk, to Lily, who is the MA. Kristen listened to my frustrations and prior disappointments about what has not worked, and is confident that she can help me achieve my goals of weight loss. I am looking forward and excited to see the success I will attain.
Joyce Kelner profile picture
Joyce K
67 days ago
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Amazing staff and great program! Feeling great!
Brian Hauser profile picture
Brian H
71 days ago
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I'd lost 20 pounds on my own and struggled to keep it off. I decided GLP-1 meds were the next step in losing more and keeping it off. I wanted a medical doctor supervised program and chose SWLC. I am so very glad I did! The team in Glendale is so supportive and kind; and when I feel discouraged, they pick me up with positive energy and input. They really do a great job with encouragement all the time. 6 weeks in I've lost 17 pounds, and am approaching weight loss with a very new perspective. Also knowing that when I reach my target goal, they'll be there through maintenance and beyond is encouraging as well. Good to not feel alone on this journey.
Stephanie Palmer profile picture
Stephanie P
85 days ago
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