While the basic principles of eating less and exercising more apply to those hoping to lose weight, specifics vary in the numerous dieting plans available. Examples include the Weight Watchers and eDiets diet plans. While each promises to help the dieter lose weight, each offers a different path and support system to get there.
History
The Weight Watchers program has been a staple of the diet scene for more than 40 years, meaning many consider its methods tried and true. Weight Watchers has different meal programs and options, including one specifically for men and the Momentum program, which allows people a specific daily points intake that assigns points to corresponding foods.
With a program that has been around for more than 10 years, eDiets offers instruction on a number of popular diets all in one spot. To begin, the dieter takes a personalized assessment that asks questions concerning weight loss goals, diet personality and personal factors, such as age, weight and height. Then, eDiets makes recommendations based on that profile, which include meal and exercise plans.
Support
An eDiets diet follower has access to an online support group in the form of online community postings. Additionally, the site offers a "Deliciously Yours" program that offers weekly meals delivered. The Weight Watchers program focuses not only on a diet plan but on providing emotion support for the dieter in the form of weekly meetings and weigh-ins.
Philosophies
Weight Watchers offers a plan based on four tenets: Eat Smart, Move More, Helpful Habits and Get Support. The program is based on common-sense food advice and the idea that success entails in-person support and accountability in the form of weekly weigh-ins. The eDiets program emphasizes flexibility and personalization, with the idea that every dieter will need variations on the program. While Weight Watchers emphasizes in-person meetings, eDiets focuses on the Internet community as a support system.
Convenience
Both eDiets and Weight Watchers offer prepared meals, which provide convenience for those too busy or unable to cook recommended meals. Weight Watchers offers foods at a Weight Watchers Diet Center, online or at a local grocery store. eDiets' prepared meals can be purchased online only and sent via mail delivery. However, both plans offer an extensive listing of recipes to provide dieters with options they can make at home.
Cost
eDiets costs $35 for nine weeks or $99 for a full year. Weight Watchers costs $14.95 per month. An additional one-time registration fee of $29.95 also applies. All prices are current in January 2010.
Member Comments