Your new weight-loss tool can be found on your smartphone

| 2 min read

How social media can help you lose weight
Social media sites like Instagram and Twitter aren’t just great ways to keep in touch with friends and family, they can also supply exactly the support, instruction and inspiration you need if you’re trying to work out more, eat healthier or lose weight. In fact, the Journal of the American Medical Association found that a combination of personal contact and web-based support is best for long-term weight management. You just need to know how to make the most of your online tools.
Twitter: Twitter is perfect for finding articles on weight-loss topics and for learning the latest news and research on diets and fitness. Searching hashtags like #HealthyMe, #HealthTips and #EatClean or participating in Twitter chats like #abcDRBchatwith ABC News’ chief health and medical editor Dr. Richard Besser, Everyday Health’s #HealthTalk or A Healthier Michigan’s #HealthyMe chats can help you find knowledgeable people to follow and pick up new tips.
Pinterest: Pinterest is a great visual resource for everything from healthy, quick meals to full workouts. But make sure you’re following credible accounts or you can learn not-so-healthy habits. A few we love: A Healthier Michigan (of course), Greatist and PopSugar Fitness.
Instagram: Instagram’s 15-second videos and filtered photos give users workout routines and recipe ideas. A few accounts we love are @FeltByHeart for mouth-watering healthy recipes, @camille4wildcat for great weight-training videos and @brianmilleryoga for some serious yoga inspiration.
#HealthyMe: You didn’t think we would give you a list of free and helpful fitness tools without mentioning our own, did you? #HealthyMe is a site where you can create an online personal health and wellness hub. Identify topics that interest you, track your goals and connect with a like-minded community for additional support. Sign up for free here.
What social media platforms do you use to inspire and motivate your weight loss and fitness journey?
This blog post is part of #HealthyMe, a personalized web experience based on your health and wellness goals. To sign up today, visit https://www.ahealthiermichigan.org/healthyme.
Photo credit: Penn State

A Healthier Michigan is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
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