1. Time Is of the Essence
Losing weight at a steady pace is important and Weight Watchers is good at helping you set reasonable goals. It can't be done overnight. Where time becomes an issue with Weight Watchers is when it comes to counting points and learning the system. Some people may be able to add these adjustments into their lifestyle with no problem. Others will be able to accomplish it for awhile, but eventually get bored and have less motivation to stick with it. Using the support groups and meetings are key in making this a success.
2. Costly and Inconvenient
Weight Watchers can be expensive. Most of their packaged foods are meant to be purchased in groups of meals and ordered directly from the company. A majority of the food products are comparably priced. Once you add on shipping and handling fees, the price rises significantly. Purchasing in bulk is probably the best option here. Inconvenience is another factor. You can only find a few select items at local grocery stores. The rest must be purchased from a supplier or an outlet. Generally, the most cost effective way to follow their plan is to buy their cookbooks and menus and do the meal preparation yourself, if you have the time.
3. Plans Can Be Confusing
The theory behind Weight Watchers is a good one. It works to combine several key elements including exercise, behavior and a strong support system. The most confusing aspect may be the food part of the program. There are two distinct plans: the Flex plan and the Core plan. You choose which plan to use based on your lifestyle, your schedule and you in general. Deciding which is right for you can be a challenge. If you're having problems, consult your physician. He can help you make decisions based on your current state of wellness and what goals you have set for yourself.
4. High in Additives and Preservatives
Learn to read labels. Many "diet" foods are very high in additives and preservatives. Weight Watchers is no different. I'm a firm believer in the statement, "If you can't pronounce it, you probably shouldn't be eating it." Most additives act as taste enhancers of some sort. Carageenan is a good example. It adds flavor but is also known to be an excitotoxin in the brain.
5. High Sugar Content
Some Weight Watchers products contain high amounts of sugar. Sugar appears close to the top of the list of ingredients in almost every product. One package of Weight Watcher muffins has 22g of sugar per serving. Along with sugar, some products also contain fructose and maltodextrin. These are also sweeteners. I much prefer sugar to artificial sweeteners, but you should also be aware of just how much sugar is in the products you buy. Be on the lookout for words like high fructose corn syrup, sucrose, sucralose and maltodextrin.
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