online programs

hwilliams519
hwilliams519 Posts: 428
edited September 27 in Food and Nutrition
Have you used an online program like Weight Watchers, Flat Belly, etc to lose weight? If so, do you think it was helpful or a waste of money? I am thinking about signing up for one, and you get the first month free, which a great way to try it. But I was curious for some input. Did it work for you?

Replies

  • brendalyne
    brendalyne Posts: 497
    I've tried Diet Center and the Amen Solution on-line programs.....and here I am on MFP....which I consider just as helpful and FREE!
  • hbrekkaas
    hbrekkaas Posts: 268 Member
    I tried WW and found it to be a waste of money, but it totally depends on the person. Its not much different then this, the big difference is that you log your food for "points" instead of logging food for calories.
  • silentpost
    silentpost Posts: 26 Member
    I'm of the DIY mindset, but here's my take on these programs: they work, but will work just the same as MFP does if you put in just a bit more effort.

    WW works because you count 'points', and have a set number of 'points' per day. This is no different than calorie counting, just adding in a middle-man.

    Flat Belly program is nice because it outlines your recipes, but advocates nothing different than watching your macronutrient intake, counting calories, and exercise. Sure, there is the benefit of not having to think about what you will be eating for the week, but I'm sure if you searched hard enough, you could find a similar plan. (http://www.prevention.com/health/weight-loss/flat-belly-diet/flat-belly-diet-recipes/article/532561c68c73e110VgnVCM10000013281eac____/2), (http://fitbie.msn.com/slideshow/your-flat-belly-meal-plan)

    Bottom line, these programs will almost undoubtedly help you lose weight, but think about the primary reason they are in business: to make money. They will always be more expensive than doing a bit of research and using this (awesome, free) program to watch your calories and macronutrient intake. However, if you can justify the additional cost (and this will mostly just be an opportunity cost to you) then those programs might be for you.
  • RyonsLions2
    RyonsLions2 Posts: 350 Member
    You know what I would do, I would log everything here of course, but use W.W. meals for lunch and dinner, and do fruits for breakfast. It will work. There are point calculators online that you can use to calculate points of regular foods yourself based on nutrition info. My daughter lost all 15 of her lbs doing it on her own, the points system. I think you don't need to spend any money, just follow it yourself! :flowerforyou:
  • cc2r1511
    cc2r1511 Posts: 127 Member
    I did WW for a couple months and it worked for me but it was too expensive. i learned a lot though so I figured that I could just continue it on my own. With their new points plus system though, I feel like its so much work to figure out your points that I never wanted to do it. Counting calories (esp for free) is so much easier for me!
  • darkhorse43
    darkhorse43 Posts: 70 Member
    I've used weight watchers for years. Really if you aren't going to attend meetings you will get just as much out of this site as your will doing online only WW. I actually quit WW (though technically I'm a lifetime member) to come here because I didn't like having to relearn a new plan every few years. Here calories don't change so it's a better tool to use for a lifetime.
  • hwilliams519
    hwilliams519 Posts: 428
    I've never officially done WW before ( I always thought it was too expensive plus I'm typically a DIY type too), but I did try to keep up with points a couple of years ago. I found myself making it too complicated. I was counting points and calories. The only reason why I am considering it now it bc my dr recommended it as one of the best weight loss programs out there. I know realistically I'm not gonna go to meetings, but the online thing is a different story.

    The main reason I am thinking about joining a program is to have more structure and accountability. One great thing about the Flat Belly program is that is creates meal plans and shopping lists for you, which I think is great. I know I will also really like the food bc I have tried briefly not too long ago. And with both programs you get a free month, but the FB one doesn't charge unless you don't cancel in the first 30 days. I think with WW they charge you up front.
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