Nutrisystem is a weight-loss service that delivers portion-controlled, prepackaged meals to customers. It's a convenient way to lose weight because you don't have to prepare, cook or make decisions about food. The Nutrsystem official website says you can expect to lose 1 to 2 lbs. per week with the program. Nutrisystem recommends consulting your doctor before beginning this or any other weight-loss program.
Features
Nutrisystem offers a 28-day delivery program you can buy every four weeks or set up as an automatic renewal. Plans are available tailored to men or to women, and the company also offers diabetic and vegetarian options. You choose from more than 50 meals and a variety of desserts and snacks that you order from the Nutrisystem website. Your food arrives in containers you heat before eating. Some examples of breakfast include oatmeal, pancakes, muffins and cereal; lunch and dinner examples include soups, pasta dishes, rice dishes, wraps, sandwiches and pizza. Nutrisystem is available in the United States and Canada.
Benefits
You don't need to count calories with Nutrisystem, as the meals are all calorie-controlled. The meals and snacks contain omega-3 fatty acids for heart health, as well as fiber, according to Diets in Review. Nutrisystem provides you with a 13-week behavioral guide to help you learn about your relationship with food and ways to control your eating habits. Members also can access the Nutrisystem community, weekly newsletters and health information at the official website.
Cost
The basic Nutrisystem plan purchased on a monthly basis costs about $350 as of October 2010, or about $12 per day. This includes three meals and a dessert each day. You also must buy fresh fruits and vegetables separate from the program. If you skip the fresh produce, you miss the extra nutrients and fiber that are important for health. The official website cautions that not eating all the recommended food can lead to serious health problems.
Considerations
Nutrisystem foods contain sodium as well as unhealthy trans fats, notes Diets in Review, so in this program you cannot choose to restrict those substances. Nutrisystem does not teach clients how to prepare their own healthy meals, which can make it difficult to continue a healthy eating style after discontinuing the plan. The Nutrisystem website advises pregnant and breast-feeding women, people under 18 years of age, individuals with a history of anorexia or bulimia, and anyone allergic to peanuts not to use any Nutrisystem program.
Side Effects
Any weight-loss system may lead to side effects of constipation or diarrhea, muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, headaches, dry or cold skin, decreased tolerance to cold, hair loss, reduction of lean body mass, menstrual changes and gout, a type of arthritis, cautions the Nutrisystem website. A March 1, 1996 document of the U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit, provided by FindLaw, notes several lawsuits filed against Nutrisystem alleging gallbladder problems connected with the weight-loss programs. Related congressional hearings included testimony on the health risks of these programs, including the development of gallstones due to rapid weight loss.
Member Comments