Table 5.

List of behaviours of other people that the participants found helpful for their adherence to the very‐low‐energy diet

Giving compliments on effort, appearance and energy. Eating at different times. Refraining from offering food to the participant. Giving the participant notice before cooking. Reminding the participant of what they are or are not allowed to eat and drink. Embarking on their own weight loss alongside the participant. When asked, giving advice from relevant experience. Encouraging the participant to keep going. Cooking meals for oneself or getting ready meals if the participant is the main cook. When cooking, leaving pieces of vegetables on the side for the participant to nibble on to curb temptations and cravings. Not buying unhealthy food. Joining the participant in non‐food related activities. Employers enabling time off work for regular appointments. Healthcare professionals: providing regular monitoring of weight and blood glucose levels. Healthcare professionals: providing physical feedback on the participant's health outcomes (e.g. graphs, scans etc.). Healthcare professionals: providing individualised behavioural support. Healthcare professionals: explaining in detail any queries the participant may have in relation to the diet and their health. Healthcare professionals: being available to respond to queries by telephone or e‐mail in‐between appointments if needed.