Nutrtion Diet Program Analysis

Jean Nidetch initially created the Weight Watchers diet plan in 1963 when she invited friends over for a weekly meeting about weight loss. Weight Watcher is now in 30 different countries around the world. In North America 20,000, meetings are held each week. (Northwestern, 2005) This diet is a weight loss program derived through the study of science. By keeping up to date on the latest medical and scientific research, Weight Watchers is able to keep their program constantly changing, evolving, and becoming a state-of-the-art program. (Huett, 2004)

Depending on your schedule, area you live, and comfort level, Weight Watchers has two options in order to be a part of their program, an online program and on site meetings. Weight Watchers on-line site offers individuals the same type of support as their on-site meetings but from the comfort and privacy of the home or office. Tools have been developed and are available on the web site for dieters to attend meetings, get support, and have access to different recipes, and offers exercise and dieting tips.

Individuals pay enrollment fees, which vary by location, and a weekly meeting fee. A typical registration fee is $15-$24 dollars with weekly dues around $13.00. On average, an individual should lose 1-2 pounds per week after the first week. In order for an individual to lose 20 pounds there would be an average cost of $145 that does not include the price for food or the numerous Weight Watcher brand items that can be purchased either on line or during meetings.

Weight watchers basis their philosophy on a 4-pillar science based approach that includes food, activity, behavior and a supportive atmosphere. (Weight Watchers, 2005)

The winning point's plan, the program Weight Watchers developed, gives you the information you need to lose weight, broaden your knowledge of nutrition, physical activity, and behavior with encouragement, and support from staff and other members of the group.

How it works:

o Each person has a daily number of points that is based on weight, gender, and age.

o Each food, including beverages, has a point value that is based on the amount of calories and fat that is in the food. The higher the fat, the more points the food or beverage is worth.

o Physical activity is encouraged and helps you accumulate bonus points in addition to your daily-allotted points. Each hour of exercise earns you one point. A maximum of 12 points per week can be used for extra food consumption

There are no forbidden foods on the program, however it is important to keep in mind that the higher the fat and calories the higher the points will be. It is recommended to avoid fried foods, rich desserts, other high fat, and high calorie foods.

A Sample menu:

Breakfast:

1-cup light nonfat vanilla yogurt

1.5 cups sliced fresh strawberries

1/2 cup low-fat granola

Lunch:

Ham and Cheese tortilla-

6-inch tortilla

1.5 ounces reduced-fat Swiss cheese

2 ounces lean ham

12 cherry tomatoes

1-cup broccoli florets

Dinner:

6 ounces steamed flounder

1 cup steamed green beans with lemon

1-cup linguine topped with 1/4 cup marinara sauce

Snack:

1 banana