Weight Loss Podcasts Can Help You Lose 6 Times More Fat!

Copyright (c) 2010 Raymond Hinish

A study published in the American Journal of Preventative Nutrition found that listening to weight loss podcasts could help you lose fat. What made this study so interesting is that researchers tested a their own formula for producing their weight loss podcast and then compared it to a standard weight loss podcast which acted as the placebo. After 12 weeks the group that received special podcast lost 6 pounds compared to a measly 1 pound in the control group.

So what was the special weight loss podcast formula that made the podcast so effective? According to the researchers of the study, the podcast was engaging, based on scientific evidence, and focused on teaching people how to live a lifestyle of health. The enhanced podcast provided tips on weight loss, diet, exercise, and motivation. Each podcast ended by suggesting a unique goal for the week.

There are many great ways to stay motivated when you are looking to lose fat. Personal trainers, books, support groups and now we can add podcasts to the list! The podcast gives you an on-demand motivational experience and, best of all, it's free!

How do you choose a good weight loss podcast?

Aside from the guidelines set by the research study above, you should also look at the following factors:

1. What qualifies the host or hosts to provide advice? The fact that podcasts are free and easy to set up, makes it very easy for any Joe Schmoe to publish. Make sure that they have real world experience and good solid scientific background.

2. Do You feel a sense of connection with the hosts? Just because it is a recorded podcast, doesn't mean that you aren't having a relationship with the hosts. Look to podcast hosts like a hybrid between a therapists and friend. You need to trust them and be willing to open up to them. As you are listening, a good podcast will challenge your beliefs and get you thinking. The podcast loses its power to promote change if you do not trust them.

3. Try them out. If you hate them, just delete them. Remember, sometimes you have to go left just to realize that you should have gone right. Be okay with trial and error, after all, it is free!

4. What are the hosts selling? It's a fair question...I don't have a problem with hosts providing products and services, but first they should provide value. When it comes to losing weight, diet is 80% of the story while exercise is 15%. The remaining 5% falls under "other", if the host spends more than 5-8% of the time talking about products...move on.

Ray Hinish, Pharm.D., CPT is a licensed pharmacist and certified personal trainer. Dr. Ray co-hosts the Cut the Fat Podcast and Your Prescription for Health radio show. He currently contributes to a weight loss blog and weight loss podcast and works as one of Owings Mills Premier Personal Trainers. Dr. Ray is also the owner of the Your Prescription for Health Wellness Center and Natural Pharmacy.