The Weight Watchers program uses a patented system that replaces calorie counting with a simplified points tracking system. Based on the premise of consuming fewer calories than you burn to promote weight loss, the Weight Watchers program assigns point values to foods based not only on calorie content but also on fat and fiber.
Identification
Weight Watchers provides its members with a "food companion" that lists the point values for a large selection of common, ethnic and brand-name foods. The program also gives members a manual slide to allow for quick calculation of point values for foods not listed in the guide. Dieters are assigned a points budget based on several factors, including gender, age, height, weight and basic activity level. Points are tracked like calories and deducted from your daily points allowance.
Significance
The program encourages healthy lifestyle changes, including eating healthier foods in proper portions and adopting a long-term exercise regimen, according to Weight Watchers. The plan requires that you track what you eat daily and stay within your points budget. The program offers online and local meeting options, and encourages members through group support, motivation and continuing nutritional education.
Features
Weight Watchers models its program on four scientifically based principles, according to its website. The program is designed to encourage weight loss at a rate of 1 to 2 lbs. weekly. In order to promote healthy eating that supports weight loss, the program encourages a low-calorie, nutritionally balanced diet. Weight Watchers encourages regular exercise, which not only helps you maintain weight loss but also reduces the risk for stroke, type 2 diabetes, heart attack and high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Details
Although the Weight Watchers points system allows you to eat what you want as long as you stay within your points allowance, the plan helps you make smarter choices by providing a list of healthful, filling foods to eat more often. When you eat foods from the list, you are able to eat more during the day because the foods have low point values. Eating these filling foods, which are listed on the Weight Watchers website, also helps you feel more satisfied, according to Weight Watchers.
Considerations
A balanced diet has room for your favorite foods and Weight Watchers makes allowance for you to enjoy higher-calorie foods in moderation. Each week, members are allotted 35 points to spend on any food at any time.
Weight Watchers gives members who reach and maintain their weight-loss goals the option of free lifetime membership. This option allows for long-term support and motivation to help you continue healthy eating and exercise habits, according to Weight Watchers.
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