Nutrisystem is a packaged meal delivery service that offers the convenience of well-balanced and portion-controlled meals delivered to your door. Three meals and two snacks are provided daily, but you'll need to supplement the meals with fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Nutrisystem is designed as a weight-loss program and calories are limited. Most plans provide between 1,200 and 1,500 calories daily, which might not be enough to support intense physical training.
Nutrisystem is a low-glycemic index diet that offers four plans: for women, men, seniors and people with diabetes. Each meal and snack is a combination of "good" carbs, lean protein and fiber and is low in sodium and fat. According to U.S. News Health, the protein, fat and carbohydrate content all fall within the 2010 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It's a healthy eating plan that includes a variety of food and ensures adequate nutrition for most dieters.
Calories
Nutrisystem has been helping people lose weight since 1971 and has a proven track record. It might be the right diet for some people but might not be the right diet for you if you are training intensely. Nutrisystem provides only between 1,200 and 1,500 calories daily; it is designed as a weight-loss program. The University of Maryland Medical Center says caloric needs vary based on age, gender and activity levels. To maintain your weight, a mildly active person needs between 12 and 15 calories per pound of body weight. So a 140 lb. person needs between1,680 and 2,100 calories daily; however, UMMC points out that an athlete might need up to 25 calories per pound, or 3,500 calories, to maintain her current weight. Nutrisystem does not provide enough calories for an athlete.
Protein
Between 20 percent and 25 percent of your calories will come from protein on the Nutrisystem plan. That's approximately 300 to 350 calories -- or 75 to 87 g -- of protein daily. If your training includes strength training and you're trying to increase muscle mass, that might not be enough protein for you. Although the average person needs about .8 g of protein per kilogram of body weight, an athlete might need 1.7 g of protein per kilogram. Nutrisystem does not contain enough protein to replace amino acids and build muscle for a serious athlete.
Other Considerations
If you're overweight, Nutrisystem can help you reach your goal weight. It's easy, convenient, relatively affordable, teaches portion control and offers both online and telephone support. It's a program that works for a lot of people. But people who are intensely training or involved in competitive athletic events need a specialized diet that reflects their nutritional needs. It should probably include more calories and a higher protein content than Nutrisystem provides. Depending on your individual needs, you still might be able to use Nutrisystem and simply add more supplemental foods, but that might not be the most effective meal plan.
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