Since 1963, the Weight Watchers diet has been utilized as a weight-loss method that provides education and support for those wishing to lose weight (and keep it off). Today, the program provides followers two options. The first is the points system, which assigns point values to foods, allowing followers to eat what they like as long as it they meet a certain points level each day. The other one is the momentum program, which emphasizes making healthy food choices but does not require counting points.
Flex Plan/Points System
Dieters who select the points system first establish a basic points level. This is determined by a number of factors, including gender, age, activity level, height and weight. Think of the points like a budget--the dieter must stay within the budget in order to achieve weight-loss success. As a general rule, the lower the daily points amount, the more weight loss achieved.
Points are awarded to each food based on the food's calories, fat and fiber. For example, a small apple has 1 point, while a piece of fast-food cheese pizza is valued at 14 points.
The points system represents a different way for dieters to look at their eating habits. Because no foods are off limits to them as long as they stay within their given points system, dieters should feel less deprived and therefore less likely to overeat. Also, if dieters stay within their points, they are consuming the appropriate amounts of calories and nutrients, and they do not have to count calories, which can be difficult.
Momentum Plan
For those who prefer not to count points while dieting, the Momentum plan involves educating dieters about foods that are low in calories and saturated fat, yet filling. Dieters choose from a list of healthy foods and they are given healthy recipes to cook in order to incorporate these principles into their everyday diet.
Unlike with the points system, dieters do have certain foods that are off-limits in favor of foods that can be eaten without having to count calories or points. By consuming foods that are both filling and low in fat, a person will make the healthy choices necessary to lose weight.
Support Component
The support component of the Weight Watchers program is one of the ways the program emphasizes life-long results. Participants in either program can attend weekly Weight Watchers meetings, receive new materials and recipes and/or join the Weight Watchers online community. Each element is designed to support the dieter and encourage her long-term success in weight loss.
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