Are you and your partner trying to lose weight together as a couple? If so, read this!

Lose weight as a couple and feel better together with these five practical tips that will help you both reach your health goals.

Tip 1: Focus on habits, not the number on the scale when you lose weight as a couple

You and your partner both want to get healthy and slim down, yet what needs to change in order for you to see results? Map things out first by setting aside some time to discuss your goals and how you'll get there. Avoid spending too much attention on the amount of weight you want to lose. Chances are, your weight loss goals differ, and the scale will likely move at different rates for each of you.

Instead of focusing on the rate of weight loss, focus on the eating and activity habits you want to change together. How about attending a yoga class instead of eating out? Perhaps find ways to prepare healthy dinners at home instead of grabbing take-out after a long day at work.

Tip 2: Say "No" to the role of food police

Healthy eating as a couple means trusting one another to eat foods and practice habits that move you both closer to your weight-loss goals. If either partner continually monitors the other's eating habits, it usually backfires as the monitored person may feel judged. It may also lead to an unconscious increase in snacking if you or your partner feels constantly evaluated.

You will each have individual caloric needs and metabolisms. The important part is that you help each other make healthy choices. Anytime you can cook and eat together, you will feel more supported, but don't be afraid of preparing varied menu items from time to time. Embrace the diversity in your journeys but stay focused on the same end result-better health!

Tip 3: Avoid late-night snacking together

Eating at night often happens when we are bored, stressed, or looking to unwind. And yet snacking in the evening can make it harder to stay within your calorie budget, impact your digestion, and stand in your way of a quality night's sleep. If you struggle with late-night snacking, these tips can help curb this habit.

Tip 4: Do something active together on weekends

Increasing your heart rate and exercising together is a fun way to connect with your partner and burn calories. Studies have shown that exercise can also have a positive impact on eating habits. One study noted that individuals who engaged in regular exercise craved more fruits and vegetables and ate fewer snack foods. Pick a few activities to do as a couple each week, perhaps a morning or evening walk together or some lunchtime sit-ups on the weekends. Avoid trying to match each other's physical activities. Find something new or different you can do as a couple that will help you each reach your goal to lose weight.

Tip 5: Most importantly, healthy eating for couples means being a good partner for the other

One of the best ways we can support our partners is to be good partners ourselves. Hurt feelings may entice you to snack on unhealthy foods. The extra calories quickly translate to going over your calorie budget, and you don't see the weight loss you desire. Be mindful not to create stressful interactions (arguments, etc.), leading to emotional eating. For tips on handling stress or emotional eating, click here.

In the end, you are each working toward the same goal, which is to lose weight and gain health as a couple. Reward your efforts by planning a celebration for your hard work!

Perhaps book that getaway you've always wanted or sign up for a meal delivery service for some new found inspiration in the kitchen. And whatever you do, don't leave your partner behind. If they begin to falter, find a way to encourage them!

Original contributions by Ryan Newhouse - health writer, MyNetDiary

Still new to MyNetDiary? Learn more today by downloading the app for FREE.

Exercise->Tips Weight Loss->Family & Friends