Weight Loss - Science of Habit

Weight loss is a complex process that involves a combination of factors such as genetics, diet, physical activity, and lifestyle. One of the key factors that can significantly impact weight loss is our habits. Habits are actions that we perform repeatedly and automatically, often without conscious awareness.
 
Research shows that up to 45% of our daily behavior is driven by habits (1). Habits are formed through a process called "habituation," which involves the creation of neural pathways in the brain that make certain behaviors more automatic and less effortful over time.
 
The science of habit formation suggests that to change our behavior and adopt new habits, we need to follow a specific process. The process involves identifying the behavior we want to change, breaking it down into smaller actions, creating a specific plan for when and where to perform the new behavior, and then consistently repeating the new behavior until it becomes automatic.
 
For example, if we want to develop a habit of exercising regularly, we might break it down into smaller actions such as putting on workout clothes, packing a gym bag, and driving to the gym. Then we would create a plan for when and where we will perform these actions, such as scheduling gym time in our calendar, setting out our workout clothes the night before, and packing our gym bag before going to bed. Finally, we would consistently repeat these actions until they become automatic and part of our daily routine.
 
In summary, the science of habit formation can be a powerful tool for weight loss. By understanding the process of habituation and following a specific process for habit formation, we can develop new habits that support our weight loss goals and make them automatic and effortless over time.
Reference:
Wood, W., & Rünger, D. (2016). Psychology of habit. Annual review of psychology, 67, 289-314.