Pros & Cons of Weight Watchers Diet

Weight loss is a big issue for Americans, because of the increasingly overweight and obese population. Many diet plans and medications exist to help those desiring to lose weight. In addition, home fitness equipment options appear to be growing with advanced technology. Gym memberships are another common motivator for many individuals seeking a plan to drop pounds.The best plan, however, must be determined by the individual, as lifestyle and personality are important aspects to consider.

Meetings/ Support

The Weight Watchers plan includes meetings and support sessions. These meeting may be helpful for those in need of a network. The meetings begin with a weekly weigh-in, and are followed up with recognition awards and discussions. The discussions allow Weight Watchers members to swap strategies and share successes and recipes. For those with time constraints, or other issues that may interfere with weekly meetings, online meetings are an alternative.

System

The Weight Watchers plan includes a points system that is determined by the weight of the individual. The points represent food choices that the dieter can make, as long as he stays within his daily or weekly allotted points. The points must be strictly counted, to ensure the individual does not exceed his daily caloric portion.
On the negative side, this system may be helpful for those learning to make smart dietary decisions; but careful planning is necessary to avoid over-indulgence.

Restrictions

Many diet plans restrict certain foods to speed weight loss. This may not suit every individual, but is said to be effective for reducing cravings. Diets that reduce carbohydrate intake are said to assist dieters with cravings, by cleansing the body of high glycemic foods. The Weight Watchers diet allows individuals to choose any foods.
On the negative side, while this approach to weight loss allows individuals to enjoy a flexible diet, cravings still may persist.

Tools

For individuals who prefer to go online, Weight Watchers offers many virtual tools to support and to aid in the weight-loss process. Recipes with pre-calculated points values are helpful for those who enjoy home-cooked meals.
On the negative side, favorite recipes may need to be revamped, and points must be calculated (which can be laborious).

Products

Busy individuals, or those who travel, may find the Weight Watchers food products handy. A variety of on-the-go muffins, snacks and frozen foods are available. Other products include magazines, scales and recipe books.
On the negative side, some of the products may be expensive, in comparison to similar items sold elsewhere.