When your loved ones focus on healthy eating, is it contagious? A study investigated whether family members of those who participated in a healthy eating and weight loss research program experienced second-hand benefits.
Study Summary
This study included 148 participants whose family members had been part of the PREDIMED-Plus research program. The PREDIMED-Plus program was focused on Mediterranean eating and physical activity for weight loss. Researchers found that:
- Over the course of the first year of the PREDIMED-Plus study, family members lost an average of 1.25 kg (2.75lbs).
- Over the course of the second year of the PREDIMED-Plus study, family members lost an average of about 4 kg (8.8lbs).
- According to a survey, family members also increased adherence to a Mediterranean diet.
The Hearty Take
This research is an example of the halo effect of participating in a lifestyle program. At Hearty, we believe that when you focus on your health, others around you do the same. Healthy living is a movement! This is part of why we emphasize community with Hearty membership.
