Nutrisystem Nourish Weight Loss Program

The Nutrisystem Nourish weight loss program, which is based around foods low on the glycemic index, was developed in 2003. The glycemic index, or GI, provides every food with a rank based on the effect it has on blood sugar. By utilizing this science, the Nutrisystem Nourish plan allows dieters the opportunity to lose weight in a healthy manner by opting for prepackaged meals, learning to create home-cooked meals that are program-friendly, or both.

Program Basics

The Nutrisystem Nourish weight loss program was introduced to the public through the 2004 book "Nutrisystem Nourish: The Revolutionary New Weight-Loss Program." The program includes a meal plan for your first 28 days. After 28 days, you can start back on the first day or alter the meals according to the principles of the program to form your own menu.

The program also offers prepackaged meals that can be delivered to your home. As of 2011, expect to pay upwards of $300 for 28 days' worth of food. This includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus two snacks.

Supplements

The Nutrisystem Nourish program allows participants to add fresh fruit and vegetables, plus low-fat dairy items, to the plan. However, Nutrisystem stresses that all supplement foods should be consumed in moderation.

Nutrisystem also recommends that participants consider taking a multivitamin and participate in regular daily exercise.

Pros and Cons

The majority of people following the Nutrisystem Nourish plan opt for the home delivery service of prepackaged foods. One of the benefits of this service is that the food is measured and the nutritional content is calculated for you already. Thus, you do not have to figure out how many calories a particular meal has. Also, having prepackaged food means that meals are more convenient, since the majority of the Nutrisystem Nourish meals can be heated in the microwave.

However, this benefit can also be a con to the program, especially for someone who must cook for other members of the family. The temptation of home-cooked meals often throws a program follower off track, especially if she is struggling to adjust to the new lifestyle.

Another con of the program is the long-term potential. Eventually the frozen meals become boring and the dieter will begin to seek -- and even crave -- normal meals. Also, unless the dieter has learned how to watch her caloric intake and has learned to make healthier choices, it is almost a guarantee that she will see some weight gain when making the switch from prepackaged meals. That is why Nutrisystem stresses to its participants to learn about caloric values and how they play an important role in weight loss and weight manageability.

Considerations

Before beginning your journey on the Nutrisystem Nourish plan, consult your physician. Also, remember that the normal amount of weight to lose per week is between 0.5 and 2 lb.

References

• "Nutrisystem Nourish: The Revolutionary New Weight-Loss Program"; Dr. James Rouse; 2004