The Jenny Craig diet addresses three critical life areas: food, body and mind, according to the Jenny Craig website. The program material states that the dieter will learn portion control and healthy eating habits with the Jenny Craig menu. Also, a personalized exercise program is created that is tailored to individual lifestyles and activity levels. Jenny Craig consultants are available by phone to answer questions and offer motivational support 24 hours a day. Jenny Craig offers either in-person consultations or online programs, depending on the dieter's preference.
Diet Basics
The Jenny Craig program uses prepackaged meals and snacks. The meals, usually frozen, consist of 60 percent carbohydrates, 20 percent protein and 20 percent fat, according to the diet review website Every Diet. The dieter is allowed three of these prepackaged meals and one Jenny Craig snack per day. An additional intake of fresh fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy is encouraged. Moderation is emphasized; therefore, no complete foods or food groups are restricted. Nutrition education is also part of the program: Dieters are taught which foods are the best choices and which foods should be limited.
Exercise
Moderate exercise is highly encouraged on the Jenny Craig program. A personal Jenny Craig consultant will work with the dieter to develop an individualized plan. Personal factors, current lifestyle and physical barriers are all taken into consideration.
Pros
Jenny Craig is a reputable program that has been clinically proven to result in weight loss, according to Every Diet. Because all of the meals are prepared in advance by Jenny Craig, calorie-counting and meal planning are eliminated. The dieter saves time, since shopping for food is no longer necessary. Meal choices are varied, which decreases the chance that dieters will become bored and resort to old eating habits. The 24-hour support increases chances of success because those on the program have access to immediate encouragement and advice. The program's nutrition education helps dieters make better choices when they're eating out in restaurants.
Cons
Since the portions of the prepackaged meals are small, the calorie counts are low. This can lead to increased hunger and prompt overeating. Some of those on the program may not like the taste of prepackaged meals and prefer fresh meals that can be prepared at home. Weight gain is also possible when the dieter discontinues use of the prepackaged meals and relies on independent cooking. The prepackaged meals do not take into consideration specific allergies or those following a vegan diet.
Considerations
Although considered one of the most successful long-term diet programs, the Jenny Craig program is also one of the most expensive. Membership fees are based on program duration and can reach $399 per year for the Premium Program, according to Every Diet. In addition to membership fees, dieters must pay the cost of the prepackaged meals, which varies from person to person. Some Jenny Craig dieters have reported spending $12 to $18 a day, which could top $550 a month. Others say they spend about $400 a month. The cost depends on personal menu selection and the specific Jenny Craig program the dieter chooses. The cost of the supplemental fresh fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy to be included with the diet program must also be considered.
Member Comments