Comparing the Jenny Craig program to Lean Cuisine is like comparing apples to the entire apple orchard. They are two different ways to lose weight. Although both offer portion-controlled, low-calorie food options, Jenny Craig is a weight-loss program whereas Lean Cuisine is a brand of low-calorie frozen meals and snacks.
What You Get
The Jenny Craig program offers low-calorie meals, but it also offers one-on-one weight-loss support and a customized plan for losing weight that suits your lifestyle. You can meet with one of Jenny Craig's consultants at one of the company's centers or follow an at-home program and meet on the phone. Weekly consultations help keep you on track, whereas Lean Cuisine meals don't have someone looking over your shoulder to see if you supplement them with a high-calorie dessert.
Foods
Lean Cuisine offers more than 100 entrees and three snacks. Jenny Craig offers full meal plans that include the main meal, desserts, snacks and a schedule that dictates when you can eat them. Lean Cuisine meals are available at most supermarkets, whereas Jenny Craig food is only available through the company. You can pick up Jenny Craig meals at a Jenny Craig Center or have them delivered. The more than 90 Lean Cuisine entrees and snacks come from seven recipe collections that include Spa Creations, Comfort Classics and Simple Favorites. Jenny Craig, too, has a wide range of choices with more than 80 foods and snacks from which to choose.
Cost
Neither Lean Cuisine nor Jenny Craig lists any prices on their websites. The Jenny Craig site notes that plan prices vary depending on the type of plan you choose, the length of the plan and the foods you select. The Jenny Craig site also says the cost of the Jenny Craig food is only slightly more expensive than what you would spend on your average grocery bill. You could end up spending less money for Jenny Craig foods, however, if your average grocery bill contains large quantities, since the Jenny Craig program emphasizes portion control.
Considerations
While you can eat healthy meals with either option, Lean Cuisine is not going to give you the support or predetermined plan that can help guide your weight loss. With Lean Cuisine, you're on your own. Jenny Craig offers its general plan as well as specialized plans for teens, men, seniors and those with Type 2 diabetes. Jenny Craig plans are a temporary way to guide you through lifestyle changes that will help you maintain your weight loss and new eating habits. Maintenance plans are available for extra help with the transition.
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