Weight loss is often seen as a personal journey—one that revolves around achieving better health, boosting self-esteem, and gaining physical fitness. However, there’s a fascinating, lesser-known side to this transformation: the profound social impact that comes with losing weight. Did you know that your weight loss could positively influence your friends, family, and even your spouse? It’s not just about you; it’s about the people around you, too.

Research has shown that weight loss can have a ripple effect, influencing your social circle in powerful ways. A 32-year study conducted on over 12,000 New Yorkers found that when one person in a friendship group or family loses weight, others are more likely to follow suit. The study revealed that a person’s chances of becoming obese increased by 57% if they had a friend who became obese. But the good news? It works in reverse as well! If you lose weight, you can inspire those around you to adopt healthier habits too.

A Shout-Out to Sohidul: A Weight Loss Journey to Celebrate

I want to take a moment to highlight my friend, Sohidul, who has achieved something incredible. He has lost over 13 kilos in the last few months after almost a decade of health struggles and weight gain. It’s been an amazing transformation, and I couldn’t be more proud of his determination and hard work. May Allah bless him with continued health and strength, Ameen.

Sohidul’s journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to take charge of your health. No matter how long you’ve been struggling, positive change is possible with the right approach and mindset.

The Health Revolution in Our Circles

Alhamdulillah, I’ve noticed a bit of a health revolution happening within my own social and family circles. Friends, family members, and colleagues have taken it upon themselves to prioritise their health, and many of them have successfully lost weight. This collective shift toward better health is inspiring, but it also highlights an important truth: health is contagious.

When one person makes the decision to live healthier, it often encourages others to do the same. Whether it’s the way you eat, how active you are, or your mindset toward fitness, those around you are watching, learning, and often adopting similar behaviours. This domino effect of health and wellness can transform not just individuals, but entire communities.

The Science Behind the Social Impact of Weight Loss

The New York study I mentioned earlier isn’t just an isolated piece of research. It’s part of a growing body of evidence that shows how weight, and the behaviours associated with it, can spread through social networks.

Here are a few key statistics from the study:

• Among adult siblings: If one sibling became obese, the chance that the other sibling would become obese increased by 40%.
• Among spouses: If one spouse became obese, the likelihood that the other spouse would become obese increased by 37%.

These statistics show that weight gain—and weight loss—aren’t just individual issues. They’re part of a larger, interconnected web of social influence. So, when you commit to losing weight and getting healthy, you’re not just improving your own life—you’re setting a powerful example for the people you love.

Leading by Example: The Right Way to Encourage Others

If you’ve been wanting your spouse, sibling, or close friend to get healthier, the best thing you can do is lead by example. By taking charge of your own health, you naturally motivate others to follow suit. The key, however, is to avoid using shame or judgment as a motivator.

Shaming someone about their weight doesn’t work and can actually be harmful. Research shows that weight shaming often leads to more unhealthy eating habits, reduced self-esteem, and even weight gain. Even if the person seems to laugh along with the banter, it’s often a defense mechanism and can cause long-term emotional harm.

Instead, focus on creating a supportive, positive environment where the people around you feel encouraged to make healthy choices. Show them that weight loss doesn’t have to be about restriction and deprivation. It can be a wholesome, sustainable process that enhances not just their body, but their mind and spirit too.

Don’t Wait for the “Right Time” – Take Action Now

If you’ve noticed your weight creeping up year after year and feel like you’re stuck in a cycle, it doesn’t have to be this way. You don’t have to wait for a perfect moment or a magical solution. The truth is, there’s no secret shortcut to weight loss that works long-term.

But there is an easy, no-nonsense approach that focuses on gradual, sustainable changes. It’s not about quick fixes or miracle cures that always end in disappointment. It’s about taking consistent action, adopting a healthier lifestyle, and understanding the social and emotional factors that affect your weight.

If you’re ready to take that step and want support, I’m here to help. Whether it’s through my weight loss coaching programme or a simple chat to see what’s possible, I’m always open to guiding brothers towards better health, InshaAllah.

Final Thoughts

Weight loss isn’t just about how you look or even how you feel—it’s about creating a ripple effect that can benefit your entire social circle. By taking charge of your health, you’re not only improving your own life, but you’re also setting a powerful example for your family, friends, and loved ones.

If you’re ready to take action, let’s do it together. The journey to better health is always easier when you’ve got the right support system, and who knows? You might just inspire someone else to take that first step too.