1. Check the Label for Quick Tracking
The easiest way to calculate points is to look at the nutritional label on packaged foods and use the "Pointsfinder." You should receive a tracker, or Pointsfinder, when you sign up for membership. Make sure to check the serving size posted on the label, since many manufacturers make calorie counts lower by listing unrealistically small quantities for a single serving. Slide the Pointsfinder to match the corresponding calories, fat and fiber grams. As you track points, you may notice that higher-fiber foods tend to have fewer points. Be sure to record the points in your food journal immediately.
2. Finding Value in the Foods You Eat
When you sign up for Weight Watchers, you receive a Week One book. Flip to the back of the book and review the foods lists. You'll find a basic listing of some of the most popular foods people eat. A typical listing may include something like 4 oz. of sliced turkey with a corresponding points value of 3. The only time you'll need to calculate points using this method is if you're splitting a serving size or doubling it. For example, 1/4 cup of hummus has a value of 3 points. If you want to eat 1/2 cup of hummus, simply double the points value to 6. Since the Week One book only lists basic foods, many members invest in the Dining Out companion or the Expanded Food list book. You can find these books at your local meeting center, where they typically sell for between $10 and $25.
3. Add It Up Online
If you pay for the monthly pass with Weight Watchers, you get access to something called eTools. You can also sign up for eTools online at weightwatchers.com. Weight Watchers uses the term "eTools" to describe a series of interactive programs that allow you to record points, share recipes and chart your weight loss over time. You can calculate your points by going to the "Plan Manager" and clicking on the "Points Tracker" icon. Once you arrive at the Points Tracker page, simply enter the calories, fat and fiber for each of the foods you ate or plan on eating. The program will automatically store the information and calculate how many points you have left for the day. Weight Watchers does not endorse any of the myriad online points calculators from personal websites. Many members have posted comments on message boards claiming these sites are inaccurate and inconsistent at best.
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