Social networking could help fight obesity

Social networking programmes could play a huge role in the fight against obesity and weight gain, say researchers.

The increase of obesity

Obesity is an increasing issue in developed and developing countries, contributing to other diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and mental health problems.

Social networking support

World experts met at the WISH Summit in 2013 to discuss innovative ways to address major global health issues, including obesity.

One innovation considered was the use of social networking sites (such as Twitter and Facebook) to provide obese people with a community of support from both clinicians and peers to help them lose weight.

Global study findings

The researchers compiled data from 12 studies spread across the US, Europe, east Asia and Australia which trialled social networking services for weight loss, involving 1,884 participants in total.

The results showed that people who used these services achieved a collective decrease in body mass index by a value of 0.64.

Community weight loss support

“The feeling of being part of a community allows patients to draw on the support of their peers, as well as clinicians,” said Dr. Hutan Ashrafian, lead study author.

According to Dr. Ashrafian, the use of social media to treat obesity encourages patients to be more proactive, and empowers them to contribute towards their own treatment.

Saving on cost and travel

Another benefit to using social networking for weight loss support, is getting advice from doctors and clinicians without the inconvenience or cost of having to travel.

It also has the potential to be more cost-effective and practical for day-to-day use.

Recommended reading: Use your smartphone to lose more weight

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