What to Expect From a Weight Loss Program
There are many different weight loss programs available, with different features. Finding the right program for you may mean the difference between success and failure in your effort to lose weight. Let’s look at some of the most popular programs and what you can expect from each.
Weight Watchers is one of the best-known programs available. With over 40 years’ experience, they have thousands of satisfied customers. Members are encouraged to develop healthier diet and exercise habits. Meetings are designed to educate and encourage.
NutriSystem is based upon portion control. Beginning with an online analysis to determine your calorie requirements, you then choose pre-packaged meals based upon an estimated weight loss of about two pounds per week. Online chat and support is available, along with personal counselors.
Jenny Craig is similar to Nutri-System in that it also distributes pre-packaged meals. However, Jenny Craig may impose a membership contract requirement, and the quality of support services varies widely depending upon the location. Some members say that the food quality is better than Nutri-System, while others say the price difference isn’t worth it.
The South Beach Diet is a three-phase plan. In the first phase, there are strict restrictions, especially regarding carbohydrates. While this phase may result in rapid weight loss, many dieters find it difficult to follow the strict restrictions. Phase 2 includes meal plans, and reintroduces some carbohydrates. Upon approaching goal weight, phase 3 helps you maintain your goal.
The Atkins diet is another low-carbohydrate plan. Some nutritionists complain that the Atkins diet permits too many fats.
The TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) program is not as well-known but is highly recommended. Local groups provide education and supportive meetings to members, and encourage healthy diet and exercise habits.
Each of these programs has its success stories. But each individual’s results are different, and the program that’s right for one may not be right for another.
Before signing any contracts, visit the group and see if you feel comfortable. You don’t have to tolerate any group that tries to motivate you by using negative feedback and making you feel bad about yourself. If you need to lose 50 pounds, don’t join a group full of people trying to lose 10 pounds before swimsuit season.
It may help to have a diet buddy to attend meetings with. If meetings aren’t your style, you and your buddy can exercise together. You may want to start by exercising at home to music or DVDs. When you feel more comfortable, join a gym or class. Again, look for a group that offers positive encouragement, not negative recriminations.
The right group or program can make it easier—even fun.
