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Weight Watchers

Weight Watchers was founded in a New York apartment over 40 years ago by Jane Nidetch. The small support group for friends has grown into the vastly successful international company that it is today. By combining a program of healthy eating and exercise with group support, Weight Watchers developed a 'partnership' approach to dieting which has since been emulated by many other weight loss organizations worldwide.

The dietary part of the this diet program works on a 'points' system. Every food is allocated a point value according to its fat and sugar content. For example, an apple may be valued at one point, while a sausage may be valued at five. Most vegetables and salad ingredients are 'free' and can be eaten without penalty. Members are given a daily point allocation of around 18-22 points, depending on their current weight. No food is forbidden, as long as the point value is factored into the daily point consumption. Points may be saved for later in a week to allow members to eat out.

Various exercises are also given a point value. Bonus points gained by being active allow the member to save for later in the week, or may be spent on an extra treat to the value of the bonus on that day.

There are ceilings on the number of points which can be saved or earned in any one week to prevent binge eating, starving and excessive exercising.

All members receive a points-value guide to the basic foods in week one of the program.

Weight Watchers offers two distinct plans:

1. Flex Plan - enjoy all the foods that you love while making better choices with the point system
2. Core Plan - enjoy satisfying foods from all food groups without counting.

Both diet approaches and more tools are available online.

Why is Weight Watchers so popular? Many devotees of the organization will answer this in just one word: flexibility.

The weight loss plan which runs for 24 weeks can be tailored to meet a wide range of needs. The points system allows for total flexibility of menu. No food is forbidden or compulsory and the menus, if used are written with busy lifestyles in mind.

Supportive atmosphere is another reason why Weight Watchers is one of the most successful programs in world of dieting. Support groups and weekly weigh-ins provide motivation for those who need structure. Meetings are also flexibl, with members being able to attend meetings at other venues should they find themselves unable to get to their usual meeting. Members are also free to choose the level of their involvement at these meetings. While some need the group support each week, many people opt to just 'weigh-in', and then leave. Either is acceptable.

Like any weight loss program, the Weight Watchers system does have some drawbacks. As it is run at a local level by leaders who have previously lost weight on the program, and current members who volunteer, the effectiveness of the support group is dependent on individual personalities. If a new member has trouble fitting in with the existing group, he or she may choose not to return.

Some people may also argue that the points system approach to weight control is a short term method and just one of many weight loss options, although none of these other options are promoted to members.

Costs may be considered high for dieters on a budget, but this program is a good alternative to more expensive programs on the market. Weight Watchers, for example, will cost you about $15 a week until you hit your desired weight. There are no special foods to buy, so it costs less than more elaborate plans that require specific food. To learn more about Weight Watchers membership and fees please click here.


Regardless of these criticisms, people are still flocking to join Weight Watchers and many similar weight loss organizations across the globe. In today's world, weight-loss needs to be less about vanity, and more about health and well being.

Weight Watchers offers a practical, accessible and structured way forward to a fit, healthy lifestyle.



Flex and Core Plans | Membership | Online Tools

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