Weight loss is more popular today than ever. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a third of the adults in the United States are obese. People are on the constant lookout for weight loss plans and diets. Two of the leading plans are Nutrisystem and Medifast. While they are similar in many ways, these plans are also quite different.
Nutrisystem Plan
With the Nutrisystem plan, you purchase five meals for each day from Nurtisystem--breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as two snacks. It is recommended you also purchase fresh fruits and vegetables to supplement the meals at lunch and dinner. The official Nutrisystem site says you can expect to lose 1 to 2 lb. a week on this system.
Medifast Plan
With Medifast you also purchase five meals per day. The sixth meal, called a Mean and Green meal, you prepare yourself. This consists of 5 to 7 oz. of lean meat and three servings of vegetables. You can eat this meal at any time of day. According to the Medifast website, you can expect to lose 2 to 5 lb. a week on the program.
Similarities
Both Nutrisystem and Medifast are programs that offer prepared meals, so there are many similarities. Each provides you choices of prepackaged meals. Specialized meal plans designed for diabetics, vegetarians and older adults are available with either plan. The two plans will cost you approximately the same. Exercise is an important part of success for each plan, just as it is with any diet plan. You need to eat five or six meals a day to help maintain blood glucose levels and prevent binge eating and overeating. If you need any support, coaching or counseling, you can find it through either plan.
Major Difference
There's one major difference between Nurtisystem and Medifast: the food you eat. All the food you get from Nutrisystem is actual meals, only in smaller portions. Many include popular everyday foods like pizza, spaghetti and deserts. Medifast meals are meal replacements, consisting of shakes, puddings and oatmeal. You also have to prepare your own Mean and Green meal with the Medifast plan.
The Choice
Nutrisystem and Medifast are high-quality diet plans that people choose according to their preferences and needs. How well either program works depends on a person's situation, commitment and motivation. If you do not want to worry about portion sizes or choosing the right food, Nutrisystem is the way to go. If you like the idea of being able to create a meal for yourself once a day and don't mind meal replacements like shakes, you may prefer Medifast.
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