Of a group of Americans successful at losing at least 30 lbs. and keeping it off for more than a year, 55 percent lost weight with a weight loss program, the National Weight Control Registry reports. Seek a weight-loss program that includes physical activity and a balanced, healthy food plan that's easy to follow. Few program participants maintain their weight loss long-term; the Federal Trade Commission has challenged some companies' claims regarding consumers losing weight and keeping it off. Prepare yourself with questions to evaluate weight loss programs.
Step 1
Get information on the success rate. Ask about the percentage of participants who stick with the program and achieve their goal weight on the program. A few high-profile success stories or TV commercials aren't representative of the average person's results.
Step 2
Look into the cost of the program and read the fine print. Consider the fees, such as the initial sign-up fee, meeting fees, online access fees, and the cost of any materials or products you have to buy to start the program. Check on the cost of specialized foods or supplements the programs require, if applicable, and read the fine print to check for any additional fees or costs.
Step 3
Read sample menus and food lists. Pay attention to whether there are restricted or forbidden foods to get a sense of whether the weight loss program is something you can live with. If the program provides meals or recommends specific products, read the ingredient labels. Check the sodium and sugar content of the foods and the additives and preservatives used in the food, beverages or supplements.
Step 4
Evaluate the program structure. Find out if there's group support or one-on-one counseling. Check how the food program works -- is it straightforward, or does it seem complicated or time-consuming to do the tracking, counting or other system? How much exercise is involved and how does the program track or support physical activity?
Step 5
Ask questions about what the weight-loss programs offer once you reach your goal weight. Is there a maintenance program? If the program requires you to buy its meals or products for weight loss, does the program offer any preparation for learning to maintain your weight loss without their meals or products?
Tips and Warnings
- Long-term weight loss requires learning how to change your eating habits and increase physical activity. People enrolled with the National Weight Loss Registry engaged in 60 minutes of physical activity per day, on average.
- Consult with your doctor about weight-loss programs and medical concerns. Some program meals, shakes or other products may be too high in sodium or sugar for people who need to watch their diets for medical reasons, such as people with high blood pressure, hypoglycemia or diabetes.
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