Key Finding: According to a new study, people who felt safe in their neighborhood lost more weight than those who didn’t. 😮 The study was done by some researchers in the Netherlands and presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Dublin, Ireland.
Did you know that your neighborhood can affect your weight loss success? 🤔 Yes! A new study presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Dublin, Ireland, found that people who felt safe in their neighborhood with good street lighting, low crime, and less traffic, lost more weight and waist circumference than those who didn’t. 😮
The researchers followed 122 individuals with obesity who participated in a 1.5-year lifestyle intervention that included diet, exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy.
The participants completed a questionnaire 💬 before the start of the program, rating their neighborhood on five factors: safety, attractiveness, social cohesion, access to grocery stores and access to sports facilities. The researchers measured their weight and waist circumference before, after 10 weeks and after 1.5 years. 🕒
The results showed that feeling safe in one’s neighborhood 🏘️ was the most important factor for weight loss. A one-point increase in the neighborhood safety score was associated with a 1.3% greater initial weight loss after 10 weeks and a 3.2% greater weight loss and a 2.6% greater decrease in waist circumference after 1.5 years. 😲
The researchers explained that feeling unsafe 😬 may discourage people from going outside and being physically active. It may also increase stress levels, which can lead to unhealthy eating habits and weight gain. On the other hand, feeling safe may encourage people to walk or cycle more, enjoy the outdoors and interact with their neighbors. 🙌
The study also found some evidence that social cohesion and neighborhood attractiveness may have positive effects on weight loss, but no significant associations were found with access to grocery stores or sports facilities. 🤔
As a weight loss coach, 👨💼 I think this study is very interesting and important. It shows that our 🏘️ environment can influence our behavior and our health. It also suggests that we can use our neighborhood as a resource to support our weight loss goals. 🎯
Of course, not everyone can afford to move to a safer or more attractive neighborhood, ☹️ but there are some things you can do to make the best of your situation. For example, you can find a buddy 🚶 or a group walk 🚶🚶 or exercise within your neighborhood. This can make you feel safer and more accountable. You can also use public transport 🚌 to find more opportunities for physical activity and social interaction.
Remember, losing weight is not only about calories in and calories out. It’s also about finding balance ⚖️ and happiness 😊 in your life. And sometimes, that starts with your neighborhood. 🌳
Now tell me, how do you feel about your neighborhood? Is it safe and have park or open space for exercise? Share your thoughts in the comments below 💬 and let’s start a conversation! 😊 👇
