How to Convince Someone to Lose Weight

When someone has a friend, spouse or family member that is overweight, it can be difficult to convince that individual to lose the excess pounds. People in this condition often do not want to hear that they have a problem, but it is not impossible to persuade them that something must be done. By using a variety of medical facts and other compelling evidence, you may be able to get a loved one to listen and attempt to lose weight.

Instructions

How to Convince Someone to Lose Weight

• 1

  Point out the risk of heart disease in overweight people. Let the person know that his risk of heart disease increases as plaque builds up in his arteries. Heart attacks and congestive heart failure, as well as strokes, are all associated with obesity. Use any examples of people within her family or circle of friends who suffered weight-related heart problems in an attempt to help her lose weight.

• 2

  Use statistics to convince him to lose weight. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, 80 percent of people with Type 2 diabetes are overweight. If she realizes that diseases such as diabetes can result in blindness, kidney troubles, strokes and loss of limbs, perhaps she will try to lose weight. Employ statistics such as this can be found on medical websites.

• 3

  Prove to him that many health problems come with obesity. Use conditions that are closely linked to being overweight, such as gallstones, arthritis, sleep apnea and being prone to certain types of cancer as motivation to reduce her weight.

• 4

  Use visual evidence. Take a picture of the person as he is now or find one that is less than flattering because of his weight gain. Then look for a picture of the person at a younger age when she was in much better shape. This comparison may be enough to help him realize just how much he has gained and rouse him to action.

• 5

  Assure her that she will receive the help she needs to be successful. Many people have tried to lose weight only to fail miserably, which makes them hesitate to try it again. Knowing that there will be a solid support system in place during the next attempt could influence him to give it a legitimate try.