Weight Watchers

Is It the Way to Permanent Weight Loss?

Weight Watchers is one of the most successful weight loss programs of all time. With group support and a lenient eating program, it continues to prove very popular with participants of all ages and varied weight goals. The program's eat-what-you-want approach directs members towards an all-things-in-moderation way of living rather than a diet mentality. So, is Weight Watchers the way for you to lose weight and keep it off? Read on to find out.

Background

Although Weight Watchers has been around for years, it went through a drastic change in the late 90's. Previously, the eating program consisted of an exchange diet. More stringent than today's program, participants were told how much of specific food groups (fruit, vegetables, dairy, fats, etc.) should make up their daily meals and snacks. In 1997 the program began its "Points" program known as "1-2-3 Success" which is still in use today, but is now called "Winning Points."

How Does it Work?

At your first Weight Watchers meeting, you will find out how many Points you are allotted each day. Each food has a particular Points value, which you can compute with a slide tool called a Points Finder. Any food with a nutrition label can be checked for Points value, or, you can consult your welcome book's alphabetical list for certain values. You can also purchase a kit that includes an organizer, an extra Points Finder and two books that list the Points for various foods, including restaurant items.

During the week, you will record the number of Points you eat at each meal on a pre-printed food journal pamphlet. You will track what you consume as the day progresses and plan your remaining meals and snacks accordingly. The leader will most likely advise you that eating right at the minimum or anywhere below your Points range is not a good idea, because it may put your body into "starvation" mode. You will also need to check off the dairy products, veggies and fruits you eat, as well as the water you drink.

What's the Food Like?

That's up to you! You can actually eat anything you want on Weight Watchers. The key is working what you want into your allotted Points for the day. You can also do what is called "banking" Points. If you know you have a special event coming up or a trip to the ice cream shop with the kids this weekend, you can reserve some of your Points from one day and use them another. You may also enjoy the convenience of eating at fast food restaurants. Even if you do not purchase the restaurant Points book, most restaurants provide their nutritional information online. Simply compute your favorite foods' Points values before leaving and you will have your meal planned.

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