NutriSystem
NutriSystem is a new weight loss program which is based on the Glycemic Index, rich in good carbohydrates and low on fat. This program includes a meal plan that allows you to choose from more than 120 pre-packaged meals and desserts. You simply select your foods online or on the phone, and they arrive on your doorstep. The meals are portioned, with no measuring or counting calories and points. Since you get to eat five times a day, you help reduce cravings between meals.
Benefits
- According to Nutrisystem, you lose weight and eat delicious foods rich in good carbs, yet low in fat.
- The Nutrisystem meal plan programs feature low glycemic index foods.
- Provides online counseling sessions.
- Clients are able to get the latest information about weight loss and health-related issues through the weekly newsletter and weekly lectures and discussions from Nutrisystem.
Risks
- If you are allergic to peanuts, you are not allowed to join the NutriSystem program.
- It is important to be aware of certain risks that have been associated with weight loss. Any weight loss program may cause constipation, muscle cramps, diarrhea, dizziness, dry or cold skin, fatigue, gout, hair loss, headaches, loss of lean body mass, irregular or stopping of menstruation, reduced tolerance to cold, as well as other possible side effects.
What do experts say about the program?
Maureen Callahan, MS, RD, Health Magazine (published on October,
2004 Health Publishing, Inc.) states, "After 30 years in the
business, NutriSystem can't point to a single clinical trial to
demonstrate that this diet works. The book and Web site do offer
anecdotal success stories, but the long-term effects of eating
pre-measured, packaged foods are unknown."
"I'm not convinced that the glycemic index is the be-all and
end-all for weight loss," says registered dietitian Leslie
Bonci, Director of sports nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh
Medical Center. "These portions are very small," she says
of the daily meal plans. "Two ounces of turkey, some sliced
cucumber, and wheat bread is not a lot of food."
Dee Sandquist, R.D., a spokesperson for the American Dietetic
Association and manager of the Nutrition and Diabetes Center at
Southwest Washington Medical Center in Vancouver, states: "For
someone who likes structure and doesn't like to cook, this program may
help jump-start weight loss," Sandquist says. "The danger,
she adds, is that it's easy to gain the weight back. Without the
program and company foods, Sandquist feels dieters could be at a loss
about how to eat."
Cost
Approximately $75.00 per week.
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