Secrecy Can Improve Weight Loss Success

SIOUX FALLS, SD - If you're planning on dieting as part of your resolutions for next year, you might not want to tell anyone about it.

That's because some experts say spilling the beans about your weight loss plans could actually hurt your efforts to shed those unwanted pounds. In fact, dieticians say that in this case, sometimes saying less is more.

A New York University study looked at the difference between announcing your intention to lose weight versus keeping your goals to yourself. Researchers found that a majority of people who tell someone, don't usually meet their goal because the praise they get for their intent to lose weight is often just as good as the recognition they receive for actually dropping the weight.

"You have to be very particular though on who you choose, making sure that those people are actually going to encourage you and not try to hinder you in your success," registered dietician Tara Harwood said.

In other words, if you tell people you plan to lose 15 pounds and they cheer on your good intention, you may no longer feel like you need to actually follow through with exercise or eating healthy because you already feel good about yourself. If you're not sure whether you should share, experts say look at your past.

"If every single year around New Year's you told every single person your New Year's resolution and it didn't work, maybe you should try something different. Keep it to yourself, tell one or two key people, letting those people actually encourage you and help you along the way and maybe this year you'll meet your goals," Harwood said.

It's also important to map out a plan for yourself going into the holiday season so you can prepare for how you intend to reach your weight-loss goal, such as going to the gym after work or eating differently.