As Times Change, So Does the Weight Watcher's System
For the first time in 13 years Weight Watcher’s has made radical changes to its weight loss program by introducing the PointsPlus Program on November 29, 2010. Weight Watchers follows the latest scientific evidence on dieting to make a plan that is both proven to work scientifically and able to be followed in a realistic manner. They realized that their old system was antiquated. Scientific advancements offer new insights into nutrition and the human body. In addition, Weight Watchers must create a plan with the ever-changing modern lifestyle in mind. The old point system needed to be upgraded. But is the PointsPlus Program just a marketing campaign designed to drive membership - or a positive advancement in the WeightWatchers program?
On the week following Thanksgiving Weight Watcher’s meetings were buzzing. Not because everybody was worried about holiday weight gain, but in anticipation of the new PointsPlus program. The program was kept a tight secret in the weeks leading up to November 29, with only employees knowing the details of the new program in advance, and everyone else hearing vague rumors of changes. But the cat is out of the bag and details have been released in publications, online, and at meetings. So what is all the fuss about?
A Candy Bar Vs. Piece of Fruit
People have wondered in the past if eating a piece of fruit is really the same as eating a diet candy bar. They might have had the same Weight Watcher’s point value, on the old system, but did that mean they were equally healthy choices? This is the biggest change to Weight Watchers. Points used to take into account calories, fiber, and total fat content, but other information was not factored in, for example, a banana and a low-fat candy bar would be equal in points. It is a complicated computation that brings protein, carbohydrates, total fat, and fiber into the equation. Points are harder to calculate. Participants need to look up the value or buy the PointsPlus calculator from Weight Watchers.
Good News, Fruits and Non-Starchy Vegetables Are Free!
The new system makes all fresh fruits and non-starchy vegetables points free. You can eat as many apples, bananas, brussel sprouts etc as you want without spending your daily points' allowance.
The Basics of the Weight Watcher's System
The Weight Watcher’s system calculates an individual's daily point allowance by considering age, sex, height, and weight. In addition to this number, everyone gets 49 points (under the new system) to use throughout the week as they see fit, allowing for such things as celebrations, eating out, rewards, and so forth. In previous Weight Watcher’s programs dieters had unlimited points on the weekends or an allowance of 35 points a week. Over time, a participant's daily points value could change because of age and weight fluctuations.
New Research Leads to New PointsPlus System
Certain foods make one feel full for a longer period of time. Additionally, some foods form energy that is more readily eaten up by bodily processes or take more energy process than others. Of course, we have known for some time now the basic principle of dieting is that weight loss comes from a calorie deficit. That means burning more calories than you are taking in. The new program takes into consideration where the calories are coming from. Different food sources effect the ease of weight loss. Even when the calories are the same, protein- and fiber-rich foods get fewer PointsPlus to encourage dieters to eat more filling food for their allotted points. Calorie-dense foods that have more fat and simple carbs are assigned more points. Since it is believed that most people do not eat enough fruits and vegetables. It is recognized that people did not become overweight from eating these foods. The new system gives fruits and vegetables to people for free.
Dieters are encouraged by the system to eat certain “Power Foods”, including whole grains, lean meats, low-fat dairy, and once again the fruits and vegetables, because these are the healthiest, most filling foods.
Weight Watchers has always, and still does, stress that there are no foods that are off limits on the program. Ice cream, sweets, and such can still be managed into ones point allowance, especially once you factor in the weekly allowance. Weight Watchers members receive, with their membership, a packet that includes a guide of about 700 food items and their points. Additionally, online members can calculate different foods’ point values quite easily. There are other tools to help assist with calculating points like an electronic calculator and books listing different foods and restaurant items, but those cost more money and are available online or at the meetings themselves.
Exercise Still Important!
I must also add, that exercise, as it pertains to weight loss, is still emphasized with the new Weight Watcher’s system. Reading materials on exercise and encouragement to engage in physical activity continues to be a large part of the program. There are three options for being a member of Weight Watchers. One can belong in person, going to meetings and weighing in there. A member can participate online with a system called Etools, or combine these two options. Hopefully this new system will prove fruitful. Personally, I have been a member of Weight Watchers for about 6 months, and am excited for the changes. But as always, the scale will show over time how well this new system really works. Weight Watchers can be a big investment financially. Purchasing their products and paying for membership is an investment. It is a proven method however, as we have seen success for many in their 45 years of existence. For many, the price is worth the advantage of the Weight Watchers successful program and ongoing research in effective and healthy weight loss.
All Images taken from Google Images.
There are no comments. Get the conversation started!
