The Weight Watchers Approach: It's All In The Points
December 2nd, 2008

"A Physicians Weight-Loss Secret. Drug-Free Weight-loss Prescription - No-Starving. No Calorie Counting. Effective, Safe. 14 Years Proven Results."

Michael C., a CEO who lives in the northeast, has lost 50 pounds since he joined Weight Watchers a few months ago. He credits the program with helping him to achieve his ideal weight. He also feels more energetic and healthier as a result of his experience with Weight Watchers. Thanks to Weight Watchers, he is no longer self-conscious when it comes to taking family photographs. In addition, he has received numerous compliments from his family and friends as a result of his weight loss.

Weight Watchers has been part of the American vocabulary for decades. The organization has become synonymous with weight loss. All across America, people are planning their daily menus according to Weight Watchers' innovative point system, which assigns a certain number of points to different foods based on calories, fiber, fat, and serving size. For instance, a Quarter Pounder with cheese from McDonald's is 13 points; corn on the cob is 3. Each day, dieters attempt to stay within their maximum point range in order to lose weight.

There are a number of advantages to the Weight Watchers program. For instance, its point system is easy to follow—much easier than counting calories. Also, the program represents a holistic approach which includes not only sound nutrition, but also a sensible exercise program. In addition, dieters get a chance to meet with other dieters, who can form a network of support. On the Weight Watchers plan, few people complain of feeling tired or hungry. A number of nutritionists heartily endorse the Weight Watchers program because of its balanced approach. Interestingly enough, no food is banned under the Weight Watchers program; however, if you want to indulge in a piece of banana cream pie, you might not have many points left for the rest of your day. Yet another advantage to the Weight Watchers program is that you can buy Weight Watchers food at your local supermarket. This aspect makes the program especially convenient.

Certainly, some people, such as Michael C. and the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, have lost an appreciable amount of weight using the Weight Watchers program. However, the vast majority of people only lose about six pounds—hardly enough for an individual who is considered to be obese. It's a fact that you won't see advertised in Weight Watchers literature. In fact, only 5 percent of dieters are able to maintain their weight loss over five years using the Weight Watchers system.

Other individuals find the Weight Watchers program too expensive to use. In addition to the registration fee, there is an additional weekly fee you must pay. Also, some individuals find little comfort in the weekly meetings—they feel that the other dieters often seem to be more competitive than supportive. The point system can also cause dieters to become preoccupied with food, hurting their relationships with other people. Once you leave the Weight Watchers program, you might find it extremely difficult to maintain your weight loss. Also, if you don't succeed in losing weight in the first few weeks, you may become frustrated and quit the program altogether.

Interestingly enough, Weight Watchers has won an endorsement from an unexpected source—the restaurant chain known as Applebee's. Applebee's now offers Weight Watchers entrees on its menus. These dishes include a tortilla chicken melt (10 points), onion soup au gratin (three points), and chocolate raspberry layer cake (four points), among other entrees.

Another advantage to the Weight Watchers program is that you can find the point values of a number of fast foods online. This means that you are not choosing your food in the dark—you have some idea what these foods can do to your waistline. Any weight loss program that improves your knowledge of nutrition should be considered beneficial.

Choosing a weight loss program is an extremely personal decision, one that should not be taken lightly. You will have to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of the Weight Watchers program in order to decide whether it's the right plan for you. However, if you do select Weight Watchers, be sure to remain committed to it for at least six months in an effort to maximize your weight loss

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