The American weight loss industry is expected to grow by an average of 12.2 percent per year from 2009 to 2014, when it will be worth more than $310 billion, according to research firm Markets and Markets. People looking online for help when trying to lose weight will find a multitude of websites promising all sorts of results. The best weight loss e-guides provide support from a community of peers, calorie tracking, recipe ideas and an easy-to-use interface.
Weight Watchers
Weight Watchers began as a meeting of friends in its founder's home in New York City and expanded into the world's largest weight management services provider. Its website can supplement or replace the traditional weigh-ins and meetings, providing food journals, interactive diets and weight tracking. Subscribers have access to a recipe database with tens of thousands of healthy meals and a restaurant guide with values for meals at national chain restaurants.
South Beach Diet
University of Miami physician Arthur Agatston developed the South Beach Diet as a weight loss program for his patients dealing with heart problems and diabetes. Since its introduction in 1995, the South Beach Diet brand has sold more than 23 million books, a specialized line of foods found in grocery stores and has generated an online weight loss community. The subscription-based website includes tools for weight and goal tracking and meal planning, access to recipes, and an online community of other members.
eDiets
Unlike South Beach Diet or Weight Watchers, eDiets is a gateway to multiple weight loss plans. Joining eDiets provides subscribers a choice between 20 different programs, ranging from low-fat to cholesterol-lowering to special diabetic diets. eDiets programs carry a guarantee that if you don't hit your goal weight within six months, the next six months of membership are free.
Livestrong's MyPlate
Livestrong's MyPlate online weight loss tool guides you towards your goal weight based on how much weight you want to lose per week. Subscribers to the free online service can track their weight and caloric intake, as well as their exercise routines. Users also have access to recipes, restaurant guides, fitness planning tools and applications for smartphones.
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