As one of several commercial meal replacement plans, Jenny Craig is designed to enable weight loss through controlled meal portions. The program also requires weekly sessions that are designed help you make healthier food choices with counselors trained in administering the program. Although you must consume specially packaged Jenny Craig meals and snacks for the bulk of your food, the plan does allow supplements of regular food with its prepackaged meals, in addition to occasional regular meals.
The Jenny Craig Program
The Jenny Craig program begins with a 28-day plan during which you eat mainly specially prepared Jenny Craig foods. During the balance of the program, you learn to prepare your own meals using specially designed recipes from Jenny Craig, along with eating special program foods. You have weekly sessions with a Jenny Craig counselor, either at a Jenny Craig center or over the phone. The 12-month Jenny Rewards plan is for those who want to achieve significant weight loss; the Jenny Tune Up plan is for those with only a few pounds to lose. Dietitians design the meal plans, which provide sound basic nutrition, however, the food is expensive and the menus become monotonous over time, making it difficult to stick with the plan, according to an article by Maria Adams, a registered dietitian with Somerset Medical Center in New Jersey.
Jenny Craig Menus
During the Jenny Craig program, you may choose from structured meal plans or select your own entrees and snacks from an a la carte selection of Jenny Craig foods. Daily calorie intake varies from 1,200 to 2,000 calories per day, based on the your weight-loss goals and other individual factors. You supplement Jenny Craig entrees with fruits, vegetables and nonfat dairy products. The plan also includes a "Meal On My Own" option that allows you to eat regular meals occasionally and to consume modest amounts of alcohol, according to the program website.
Eating Out and Transitioning to Regular Foods
The Jenny Craig plan includes specific strategies designed to assist you in making low-calorie choices when dining out or on special occasions, such as holiday meals. The "Dining Out Guide" includes advice and guidance on how to navigate a restaurant menu. Counselors also work with you to help you enjoy special occasions while maintaining reduced calorie intake. As you make weight loss progress, you begin the transition to the "Halfway Menu" that allows you to prepare your own foods two days per week using foods from a prepared grocery list.
Maintenance Phase
Once you have reached your target weight, you may continue to eat Jenny Craig foods, along with regular meals, if you want to. You also have continued access to online support tools, including the Progress Tracker, Menu Planner, special recipes and telephone customer support around the clock. If you're on the 12-month plan, you also maintain contact with your counselor during the entire term of the program.
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