Research performed by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has shown that nearly two-thirds of the United States population can be considered overweight, with a body mass index (BMI) score of over 25. Of that percentage, an estimated one-third are considered obese with a BMI score of over 30. To combat these statistics there are many diet plans on the market that claim to help their participants lose weight. One of the most popular of these diets is the Nutrisystem plan.
Portion Control
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, meal portion sizes have grown significantly in recent years, which can increase your risk for obesity. One of the first advantages of Nutrisystem is the automatic portion control provided by the diet plan. Meals come in individually wrapped portions for each meal and snack. This allows each meal to be pre-calculated to a specific healthy quantity to help you lose weight. This removes the hassle of measuring or weighing the foods you eat before every meal.
Calorie Control
By controlling portion sizes, the Nutrisystem plan also implements strict calorie control, since the larger your food portion, the more calories you consume. The Nutrisystem plan also chooses meal ingredients that are lower in calories as well as high in fiber and good carbohydrates. The added fiber and beneficial carbohydrates help you feel full faster, reducing your overall calorie intake without leaving you feeling hungry.
Variety
The Nutrisystem plan also provides variety, making it easier to remain on the plan. Many diets limit what you can eat to shakes and bars, or only a few specific food items. Nutrisystem has a wide variety of menu choices which cater to different tastes, ranging from savory to dessert items. As of 2010, the Nutrisystem plan advertises over 160 entrees and desserts to chose from.
Customization
Nutrisystem also allows you to choose a specific meal plan based on your age, gender or medical condition. For example, Nutrisystem has plans designed for both men and women. The company also provides "silver" plans for seniors, as well as both diabetic and vegetarian options.
Convenience
Nutrisystem also makes dieting convenient. With the system you can design your meal plan online or over the phone, place your order, and every week a new shipment will be dropped off at your door. This removes common dieting hassles such as meal planning, grocery shopping and even cooking, as meals only need heating.
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