Weight loss programs that work have one thing in common: a focus on reducing caloric intake. The most effective programs encourage long-term lifestyle changes that include eating healthier foods, decreasing portion sizes and increasing physical activity. According to the National Institutes of Health, a deficit of 500 calories per day achieved through reduced food intake or exercise is necessary to lose one pound per week. A variety of weight loss programs are available, including counseling services, meal delivery plans or a combination of both.
Registered Dietitians
The Mayo Clinic recommends consulting a doctor before beginning a weight loss program. A doctor can set appropriate weight loss goals and recommend a registered dietitian or RD to develop a personalized weight loss program to meet individual nutritional needs. Registered dietitians are credentialed food and nutrition experts who can provide personalized weight loss counseling and long-term strategies for achieving a healthier lifestyle.
Weight Watchers
Weight Watchers is a support program emphasizing healthy eating patterns, behavior modification and physical activity through in-person support group meetings and online tools. Weight Watchers uses a Points system and assigns foods a value, based on calorie, fat and fiber content.
This strategy helps members control calorie intake and still eat the foods they like. A 2005 study in the "Annals of Internal Medicine" showed that participants lost an average of 10 pounds in six months and kept about half the weight off after two years.
Jenny Craig
Jenny Craig offers a personalized approach to weight loss with weekly one-on-one consultations, individual food delivery plans and activity plans. The meal plan blends a member's own grocery foods with Jenny's Cuisine meals and snacks, which demonstrate proper portion sizes and balanced nutrition.
The company reports an average client participating in the program for three months loses 8 to 10 percent of her body weight, or roughly 15 to 20 pounds.
eDiets
eDiets offers an online weight loss program and meal delivery plan separately so members can choose to enroll in one or both. There are roughly 20 diet plans to choose from and programs are personalized to account for a member's weight loss goals, food choices and cooking preferences. Members have phone access to registered dietitians and fitness experts, and online access to communities and message boards.
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