Planning what you'll eat for dinner can become a major headache when you're trying to lose weight. Many companies thus provide meal services for those who would rather not deal with it on their own. Nutrisystem works as one such company, selling 28-day subscription plans where the company ships you pre-packaged breakfasts, lunches and dinners, along with desserts and snacks. The company promises that you'll lose weight if you only eat the food they've prepared, but the meal plans aren't without their inherent risks.
Peanuts
People who are allergic to peanuts often experience very violent, sometimes lethal allergic reactions to peanut-containing foods or foods that were prepared in the same factories as peanuts. Unfortunately, some Nutrisystem foods contain this nut. Thus, the company won't let anyone with a mild or severe peanut allergy subscribe to the meal plans.
Sodium
Nutrisystem reports that its traditional meal plans offer approximately 1,800 to 2,000 mg of salt every day but warns that your salt intake could be higher depending on your specific subscription plan. If your doctor requires you to go on a low-sodium diet, like if you have very high blood pressure, the Nutrisystem model may not be right for you.
Counselors
The Colorado State University Extension warns that Nutrisystem's diet counselors, who help tailor each individual's eating plan, aren't registered dietitians. Thus, the advice you get from the counselors may not necessarily be backed by the requisite training required for certification.
Gluten
Many Nutrisystem food items contain gluten. If you have a gluten intolerance and can't digest this substance properly, Nutrisystem states it's not the right diet model for you.
Artificial Sweeteners
Nutrisystem reports that some of its foods contain artificial sweeteners known as acesulfame K and sucralose. Some people prefer to steer clear of these chemicals due to potential health risks, reports the University of Cincinnati Wellness, though the university reports such risks are very low.
Protein
Approximately 20 to 25 percent of the calories in a day's worth of Nutrisystem food come from protein, according to the company. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that most adults should get 10 to 35 percent of their calories from protein. Thus, the Nutrisystem meal regimen may not provide all of the protein you need, especially if you're very physically active.
Expensive
You pay a premium for the convenience of having pre-packaged food shipped to your house. The expensive costs are one of the major drawbacks of the Nutrisystem program highlighted by the Colorado State University Extension.
Freezing
Some Nutrisystem foods require freezing from the moment you receive them until you use them. Such meals are labeled "Select." If you don't freeze them immediately, you run the risk of spoilage.
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