Weight Watchers is a popular weight loss program in which foods are assigned point values. Each member receives a specific amount of points to eat based on current weight, gender, age and activity level. The program has no off-limit foods; eating a wide variety of foods is encouraged. Certain Weight Watchers diet tips can make this program even more successful.
Focus on Filling Foods
Weight Watchers assigns point values to foods based on calories, fat and fiber content. Low-calorie, low-fat and high-fiber foods have the lowest points. Some specific foods are identified by a green diamond and are considered filling foods, according to Weight Watchers. The goal is to focus on filling foods, which are high in fiber, to keep the body feeling full and to curb binge eating. Additionally, filling foods are lower in calories. A plate that has more pasta than veggies will be smaller because it adds up to more points. Cutting out half the pasta and doubling the veggies will make a bigger plate for the same number of points or calories.
Keep Hunger at Bay
Skipping meals, cutting out too many calories or eating snack foods can leave you feeling hungry, which can lead to bingeing and poor food choices. It is important to track hunger signals. The goal is to find a balance by not eating so much that the stomach feels bloated, but also not becoming so hungry that anything will do. Small meals throughout the day and filling snacks help to prevent starvation so that you can make healthy food choices.
Learn to Recognize True Hunger Signals
Another important aspect of the program is to identify triggers that lead to overeating. You may overeat when you are bored, stressed or anxious. Before eating, wait five minutes and find an activity to do. If after five minutes feelings of hunger are still present, then it is time to eat. If hunger disappears, then it may not have been true hunger.
It is important to find healthier ways to deal with boredom and stress. Instead of eating, take a walk, practice a meditation technique or talk with a sympathetic friend.
Be Prepared
Shop at least once per week and buy plenty of healthy, filing, low-point foods. Make meals ahead of time so that when you rush home from work, a healthy meal is ready. Do not keep unhealthy foods in the house.
Look up restaurant menus ahead of time as well. If you're going to a party, bring a dish in case there are no healthy options available.
Do Not Expect to Be Perfect
Everyone slips up now and again, and certain situations like holiday parties or celebrations need to be enjoyed. During these periods, calculate allowed points by the week versus the day. This means you can enjoy indulgences on a specific day. Then, on the other days of the week, eat fewer points so that the week balances out. This should not be a regular practice, but it can come in handy on special occasions.
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