Can Facebook Help You Lose Weight?

For many people, dieting can be isolating. They feel like they are the only ones who are being deprived of their favorite foods. They may even avoid social situations for fear they will indulge in too much food or drink.

But for some dieters, websites like Facebook and Twitter may provide outlets of support from family, friends, professionals and even strangers who are having the same experience.

Today more and more people are sharing everything on line – from births and new jobs, to what they had for breakfast and what they did for exercise.

“It’s very motivating for people to share what they are doing to keep on track,” says Gary Korus, MD, FACS, bariatric surgeon at Penn Medicine. “Many people start blogs to chronicle their weight-loss journey and build a support system for themselves in the process.”

Bloggers are doing more than sharing tips and weight-loss success stories – they are opening themselves up and connecting with other people who share the same struggles.

“Weight-loss bloggers are gaining support from their readers, and they are also inspiring others to lead a healthier lifestyle,” says Dr. Korus. “As a friend or a fan, when you see someone blogging about their weight loss, or posting a comment about their exercise routine on Facebook, it can be very inspirational. Plus, it is a great way to offer support.”

Do you share your struggles with weight online? What are your favorite websites or bloggers that are sharing their own weight-loss stories?