Why You Should Keep Your Diet a Secret

Plan on dieting in the New Year? You should keep it a secret, according to a new study.

Some experts say that telling others about your diet plans could have a negative effect on the diet.

“You have to be very particular on who you choose. Make sure they are people who are going to encourage you and not hinder you and your success,” said Tara Harwood, a registered dietitian with the Cleveland Clinic. “So, you do want to tell some people, however, for the most part keep it to yourself and let other people gradually notice these changes in you.”

A New York University study looked at the difference between telling others about your weight loss plans versus keeping the diet a secret – and found the majority of people who announced their plans did not meet their goals because the recognition they received is perceived as an accomplishment.

Basically, if you tell people you plan to lose 15 pounds – and they recognize your intention, you no longer feel the need to follow through with the diet because you are now feeling good about yourself.

“So, you have to think about your past. What have you done in the past that has made you successful or not successful?” Harwood said. “If every single year around New Year’s you told every single person your New Year resolutions, 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 suggested mapping out a plan for your diet: How do you plan on achieving your weight goal? Do you plan on going to the gym or eating better?