Which friends have the most weight loss influence?

More than promises and programmes

Every day we're flooded with countless promises of 'the next best' weight loss programme that will slim us down and transform our bodies.

These all aim to combat the high rate of obesity in adults today, but they don't do any good if we're not adopting them.

Study: Weight loss influence from friends

If a new diet or exercise programme is working for a friend, there's a good chance that you will try it, too.  A new study has found that people who are successful in wellness programmes, have more influence in getting friends to sign up compared to a charismatic, but less successful pal.

The study simulated the behaviour of fictional people who had the ability to lose weight and a high or low body mass index. Based on the simulations, people in social networks linked to someone who successfully lost weight or had a high body mass index produced the largest total weight loss among peers.

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Celeb endorsers take a back seat

Surprisingly, the networks surrounding a person with a high number of friends – those who were more charismatic or popular – produced lower weight-loss totals.

The results of this study support the new approach many weight-loss programmes have taken in attracting new participants: Celebrity endorsers with a large reach have taken a backseat to everyday people who benefit from a new diet or workout.

Look closer for inspiration

If you're looking for inspiration and motivation to lose weight, speak to friends or colleagues who've been successful. These ties could have a bigger effect because you see them every day and you have that close connection.

Recommended reading: Why weight loss apps and social networks work

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