6 Ways to Help Your Partner Eat Healthier Without Being Pushy
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In a world of frozen dinners and takeout, the road to healthy eating can be rocky. Yet, nothing feels better than finding your way onto the precious path. But what happens your partner is on a different route? When they're all about potato chips while you head for the kale chips? Needless to say, it can pave the way for conflict.

First, it's natural to be concerned. Not only do you want the best for them, but their health—and lifespan—directly affect how much time you get to spend together. Their lifestyle choices may impact the eating habits of kids and grandkids, too.

Even your own habits can take a hit. "The simplest way couples influence each other is [by] proximity," observes Sally Chung, Psy.D, a clinical psychologist at Oceanside Psychological Services in Seattle. "[For example], when someone is inhaling chili cheese fries in front of me, it is a lot harder for my salad to be satisfying."

She adds that when your kitchen is stocked with chips and ice cream, temptation is harder to overcome. You may feel bad for even throwing them out because your partner loves eating them.

In fact, the British Journal of Health Psychology states that couples are likely to share health-related behaviors like eating and exercise. The overlap is so significant that a 2010 study in Public Health Nutrition found that couple-based weight loss programs are more effective than individual ones. Clearly, relationships are powerful.

This is where you come in. As your partner's other half, you're in a unique place to pave the way for healthier eating. However, it all depends on a balanced and respectful approach—no matter how much you want to toss those doughnuts in the trash.
 

Why Does Your Approach Matter?


In psychology, experts use the Interdependence Theory to explain how relationships influence a person's behaviors. A 2013 article in Health Psychology shares that an individual's healthy habits involve three factors: personal characteristics, their partner's behaviors and the interactive nature of the relationship. In other words, it matters how you interact.

Remember, change is not easy. According to Dr. Chung, an encouraging and positive approach keeps the relationship safe enough to make mistakes, start over and think outside the box throughout the weight-loss process. This is especially crucial when your partner hits obstacles, a time when it's easy to feel defeated. With positive tactics like providing information and praise, though, you can remind them of the bigger picture.

A gentle, loving approach sure beats negative tactics like guilt-tripping, policing and scolding. Unsurprisingly, these controlling methods are less likely to change your partner's behaviors, says the British Journal of Health Psychology. Even worse, these tactics are also linked to adverse effects, a strained relationship and no fewer trips through the drive-thru.
 

6 Ways to Encourage Your Partner to Eat Better


To start, avoid looking at this as a "project." Instead, view it as a journey that you are taking together. Shift your focus away from control and on to love, respect and support, starting with these six expert-approved tips.

1. Express Concern

It might seem like an obvious first step, but your partner can't read your mind. Make it known that you value health, and you'd love for them to come along for the ride. Kindly remind them that you have a future together.

Share that you are willing to work as a team—not take over their decision-making and schedule. "Ask what you can do to be supportive," suggests Dr. Chung. "Your partner may have specific things they do or do not want you to do or say during this process." In turn, you'll make room for personalized, lasting change.

2. Lead by Example

Practice what you preach. Actions speak louder than words, as they say.

Instead of reprimanding your partner's actions, use that energy to show how you benefit from healthy habits. Focus on the perks, whether you are saving cash by prepping breakfast before work or feeling satisfied after eating a meal rich in whole grains and bright veggies.

Not only will this help you become a positive eating companion for your partner, but you will also create a healthy social eating environment, a factor that affects obesity risk.

3. Do It Together

From meal planning to making brunch, aim to be by your partner's side. "Embrace healthy eating together," recommends Lisa R. Young, Ph.D., R.D., a nutritionist, author of "The Portion Teller Plan" and adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University. "Make it fun! Make it a team effort."

Prioritize eating, cooking and grocery shopping together. Not only will this communal tactic create a healthy social eating environment, as stated above, but it doubles as a stellar bonding activity. "Implementing positive habits together can be a great way to normalize the lifestyle change and make it stick more consistently," explains Dr. Chung.

For example, instead of sneaking peas into their burgers, show how easy it is to make delicious veggie patties at home. Spend a lazy Sunday perusing a healthy cookbook to find dinners for the week ahead or collaborating to create a healthy meal. The couple that cooks together, stays together (as they say) so why not make your kitchen a healthy zone?

4. Praise Positive Habits

"A great way [to show support] is pointing out the positive choices and changes," Dr. Chung explains. "It tells your partner that you are paying attention."

If your partner made a rare effort to eat breakfast, mention how energized they will feel for that morning meeting. Nothing beats a simple "I'm proud of you", too.

Take it up a notch and note how their changes positively impact you. Did you just cook a tasty dinner together? Dr. Chung recommends vocalizing how good it made you feel, along with, "I never knew miso salmon was easy to make at home. Let's make that more often."

She also adds that some may feel like others don't notice until a mistake is made. So, instead of scrutinizing how your partner is on a first-name basis with the pizza guy, acknowledge positive choices both big and small. It's a caring way to feed the very habits you want to encourage.

5. Highlight What They Care About

While offering praise and ideas, find opportunities to demonstrate how healthy eating can enhance their quality of life. Emphasize habits that can change what matters to them, whatever that may be. 

Are they battling sluggishness, poor digestion or heartburn? Kindly suggest a positive eating habit that can alleviate their struggles. It's a gentle nudge that offers a nutritional advantage. Something like, "Hey, bananas are an awesome source of energy. Want to freeze some and make 'ice cream'?" could open their eyes to an option they hadn't ever considered.

Don't forget that positivity is the name of the game. Sure, they may "care" about their love handles, but this isn't a chance to dig into those insecurities.

"This can backfire. Being critical or shaming only leads to more distance," warns Dr. Chung. "It makes it hard for you to sound supportive, or for your partner to perceive what you are doing is supportive." As a result, they'll be less likely to turn to you in fear of your judgments.

6. Be Realistic   

When it comes to changing our habits, we're always told to set small goals. Dr. Young reminds us that making small changes will also limit or prevent major setbacks. So why should your partner's experience be any different? 

They won't eat five serving of veggies overnight, and you shouldn't expect them to. While it can be a challenge if you've been on the journey to health for a few months or more, it's important to remember what it felt like to be a beginner and acknowledge that healthy habits develop slowly over time. Cheer on the process instead of demanding huge transformations. Otherwise, it will be more difficult for them to make a lasting change when they are anxious about your criticism, says Dr. Chung.

As your partner's biggest cheerleader, your role is priceless. Yet, ultimately, it's up to them to make a change. This is tricky enough when one is watching! Regularly check in with yourself to make sure you're not taking control. Exercise compassion, and create a safe space where your partner can tackle a giant mountain. They are only human, but with your love and support, they can climb it. 

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