Weight Watchers has been helping people lose weight for more than 40 years. From its humble beginnings in Jean Nidetch's Queens, N.Y., apartment to its expansion into 30 countries, Weight Watchers has operated by what it calls The Four Pillars. At the heart of the program are what are referred to as points.
Significance
The concept of points is an important one in getting the most out of Weight Watchers. Thousands of different foods are assigned a point value on the basis of its caloric content, the amount of fat grams it contains and the amount of fiber. People are free to eat any foods they want provided they stay within their daily point total.
Features
Every person is given a daily Points Target, which is based on the individual's age, height, weight, sex and physical activity. The person will then eat foods with the same total points as their Point Target on a daily basis.
Potential
One of the key concepts behind the Points Target method is for Weight Watchers customers to make better eating choices. One way this is done is to encourage people to eat foods that are more filling. A person may be given the choice between eating two pieces of toast or an omelet and fruit, both of which have the same number of points.
Geography
While the basic points system is used throughout Weight Watchers, the programs may be called by different names depending on location. The main program in the United States is called Momentum, while the Discover Plan is the primary method used in the United Kingdom.
Considerations
Weight Watchers realizes that sticking to a rigid eating plan can be a daunting task, so the program allows members the occasional treat. The weekly Points Allowance will let people indulge a bit, while still sticking to the weight loss plan.
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