You may view the decision to lose weight as a personal choice, but your mate may not see it that way—particularly if you live together. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that when people overhauled their eating habits, their spouses and partners experienced a wide range of emotional reactions, including skepticism, guilt (over their own unhealthy habits), and even anger.

"Whether you've just started dating or have been married for years, your social life as a couple tends to revolve around food," explains Cynthia Sass, R.D., co-author of Your Diet Is Driving Me Crazy. "When one person alters that routine, it can unwittingly throw off the balance of the relationship or make the other feel rejected." Fortunately, there are simple ways to ease the transition.

1. Prepare him for changes "That doesn't mean announcing you're going to start a new eating program tomorrow," says Sass. Share your plans at least a few days in advance and try to communicate your reasons for making adjustments to the normal dining routine.



2. Address his concerns You'll help circumvent negative feelings that may arise once your diet starts. Because he may worry your goal is to get him to lose weight, clarify any expectations you have.



3. Identify potential stumbling blocks Will you have to make your own dinners? Are DVD-and-pizza nights banned? Once you've raised the tough questions, you can come up with solutions together.