Does Weight Watchers Really Work?
Weight Watchers is one of the most successful and popular weight-loss programs on the market. But that doesn't mean it's for everybody. It's important that you consider all of the pros and cons of Weight Watchers and other popular weight-loss programsbefore you invest. Here are some important factors to consider before you decide if the diet plan is right for you.
Weight Watchers Pros
Does Weight Watchers really work?
Many say that it does. Here are some reasons that the diet plan might be the best program to help you lose weight.
- No foods are forbidden. There is no list of foods to avoid on Weight Watchers like you'll find on other diets. Instead, you count SmartPoints and earn FitPoints. The point system encourages you to eat healthy food but also allows you to indulge with sweet treats or snacks once in a while.
- Nutritional tips, cooking advice, and lifestyle education are offered. If you attend Weight Watchers meetings, your leader will share good nutritional advice with the group, such as the importance of eating plenty of vegetables, healthy fats, low-fat dairy and drinking enough water.
- You may be able to bring your kids. Some Weight Watchers locations offer special meetings to which parents can bring their children.
- Slow and steady weight loss is achieved. You can expect to lose one to two pounds a week on the program. You may even lose more when you first start. This is a very healthy rate at which to lose weight. Weight lost at this steady rate is more likely to be maintained.
- Encourages portion control. To accurately track and record your SmartPoints, you will need to measure your portions and serving sizes. This skill is valuable and will serve you well even if you go off the plan.
- Exercise is promoted. The Weight Watchers system encourages plenty of daily movement and exercise. Guidance is provided for new exercisers and for those who can work out harder and burn more calories.
- Cooking at home is encouraged. You're more likely to eat healthy foods if you cook them yourself. Weight Watchers offers recipes and cooking tools to help you learn how to prepare meals that will keep you lean and fit.
Weight Watchers Cons
Even though Weight Watchers works for many people, it still may not work for you. Consider these drawbacks before you invest in the plan.
- The expensive cost. The monthly cost for your Weight Watchers membership will vary depending on the level that you choose, but if you have a lot of weight to lose, the investment may be significant. Be sure you consider the total cost for the entire time you need to be on the plan to make sure that you can afford it.
- Group meetings don't work for everyone. Some people don't like to share personal health and weight loss information in a group. Of course, you are not required to talk at a Weight Watchers meeting. But the meetings are what make this weight loss program unique. If you prefer not to do meetings, other options are available. There is a new online program available for those who can't make meetings.
- Weekly weigh-ins are necessary. You need to weigh in once a week to track your progress on Weight Watchers. For some dieters, this requirement is uncomfortable. For others, it helps keep them on track. Keep in mind, however, that at meetings the only person who sees your weight is the person weighing you.
- Weekly progress may discourage you. Some people prefer to measure weight-loss success on a monthly basis rather than weekly. On Weight Watchers be prepared for weekly progress checks. Some weeks you will lose little or no weight, even if you're doing everything right.
- SmartPoints counting can be tedious. If you don't like counting calories, you may not like counting SmartPoints either. The process can be time-consuming and may be too complicated for dieters who want a quick and simple approach to eating.
- Too much freedom to eat. The ability to choose anything you want to eat may prove too tempting for some. It is completely possible to use all your SmartPoints on less-than-nutritious foods. For those dieters, weight loss plans that offer strict eating guidelines may work better.
Remember that there are bonuses and drawbacks to every diet and eating plan. This list of Weight Watchers pros and cons will help you decide if the program is right for you. Before you choose any diet, be sure to evaluate all of the costs, reviews and information.
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