Weight Watchers is a popular diet program that originally involved going to regular meetings to weigh in, get support and learn techniques that lead to successful weight loss. Weight Watchers now also offers the option of following the program online. However, before starting any new diet program, it is best to understand how it works, research its effectiveness and find a solution that fits your personal needs. It is also good to talk to a registered dietitian or physician to ensure the plan is safe.
Identification
Weight Watchers assigns points values to foods and activities. Each member is assigned a daily points allowance based on age, gender and physical activity level. The points system encourages weight loss of about one to two pounds per week. Members weigh, measure and record all food and beverages that are consumed and their points values every day in order to stay on the plan. As weight is lost, the number of allowed points decreases, until the goal weight is achieved. Then a few points are added back in, so that a healthy weight is maintained. The Weight Watchers plan encourages healthy eating that includes foods from all of the food groups.
Benefits
The Weight Watchers online option can be a good choice for those whose schedules do not allow attendance at meetings. All of the tools that are available to members who go to meetings are available online, as well. Points are assigned after taking a short online quiz. Online members then have access to thousands of recipes, articles and tools to track progress, reports the Weight Watchers website. The plan can be accessed at any time to accommodate a busy schedule.
Concerns
According to a paper in the "Journal of the American Medical Association," Weight Watchers was no more effective than any of the other popular weight loss programs, but if the plan is followed correctly, members do lose weight and reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic illnesses. However, success with adherence to the Weight Watchers program was no higher than adherence to other popular weight loss plans.
Considerations
One of the reasons Weight Watchers works is because it offers group support. Working to lose weight with others tends to be more successful than dieting alone, states the American Psychological Association. Members in the group can encourage each other and may even form walking groups or go out to eat together to help each other stay on the plan. When members know they have to weigh in and report to a leader or other members, they may be more likely to stick to the plan. This is where the online program may fail. There is no checking in with a leader and no accountability if the plan is abandoned.
Solution
Weight Watchers offers a sensible eating program that can help members to lose weight, however its effectiveness relies on how well the member follows the program. This means accurately weighing, measuring and recording all food and beverages that are consumed. In addition, to be successful it is important to get on the scale regularly, so that adjustments can be made if weight is not being lost. Following Weight Watchers strictly online takes a high level of commitment and self discipline, but it can be done.
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