Guidance For Your Weight Loss Journey

Discover the benefits of using a weight loss program versus a diet. Learn more about picking a weight loss program, including top program options.

Losing weight is a difficult process. Part of the challenge is everyone reacts differently to weight loss programs. While a diet may be effective for a friend or family member, it does not mean it is a good fit for you. Your body may process the food differently, or the recommended diet may actually be unhealthy because it does not match up well with your lifestyle. Part of the problem with diets is they are often restrictive, focusing on a few types of food. If you want to shed some pounds without having to cycle through multiple diets, consider a weight loss program instead.

Weight loss programs are sometimes referred to as diets, but the process is more involved. A diet focuses on losing weight by eating specific foods. A weight loss program focuses on a wider range of foods, but also includes other advice and support to help you maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Maintaining Variety

The biggest advantage a weight loss program has over a traditional diet plan is variety. A common reason diets do not work is because diets often feel restrictive. While some dieters are comfortable eating the same types of foods over and over, most prefer more variety. If you end up bored with your diet, you are more likely to break it. Some weight loss programs are completely customizable, while others have a large range of foods to choose from, allowing you to create your own meal plans.

Another issue with the lack of variety in diets is the diet is aimed at a specific lifestyle. For example, there are some diets that focus on one or two large meals per day. For many, this is not a viable or healthy option. Weight loss programs provide a wider ranger of foods, so you are not eating the same thing each time. There are also different types of meal plans, so you are not forced to make drastic lifestyle changes to accommodate your weight loss plans.

Staying Motivated

Another advantage of a weight loss program is a greater emphasis on motivation. One of the struggles of losing weight is how long it takes for results. Even the most effective diet or weight loss program takes time to get going. With a diet, you are entirely reliant on your own motivation to continue with the diet. With a weight loss program, you are part of a support network. Many of the programs host meetings or similar events where you can speak with other members and share your results, or vent your frustrations. Having a support net makes you more likely to stick with a weight loss program, as well as help you realize how much progress you are making, even if it is not as quick as you would like.

WW

WW is more recognized by the old name, Weight Watchers. The program has undergone several name changes in the last few years before finally settling on WW. No matter what it is called, WW is frequently at the top of best weight loss program lists. Part of what makes the program so effective is the sheer number of options. In addition to the traditional weight loss plans, WW offers specialized programs to accommodate for both vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. The program also places a larger emphasis on community support, encourages members to share their results and work together to achieve their goals. It also has different options depending on whether you are completely new to the program or a returning member.

WW uses a point-based system. Each day, you are allocated a set number of points. This gives you more freedom in selecting your meals. It is one of the best long-term programs because it has so much variety and is simple enough to change up your meal plans as needed. It is also more accommodating towards smaller meals. Many programs focus solely on the main meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner, but do not take into account smaller snacks, which often contribute to weight gain.

The cost of WW plans vary depending on the level of support you desire. All of the plans use a weekly pricing model, with a basic digital program starting at $3.38. A more comprehensive plan, which includes access to unlimited workshops is only $6.92.

Noom

As of writing, Noom is one of the newest weight loss programs. The creators advertise Noom as being the best weight loss option for a modern age, with everything being managed through an app. The app utilizes a color-based system for food, based on the overall nutritional quality. Green means the food is healthy, yellow means you can include it in small quantities and red tells you to avoid the food entirely. Noom also has a wide range of customizable meal plans that incorporate many styles of food.

Noom allows users to stay in touch using the app, which is good if you live in a rural area where it is difficult to attend in-person meetings normally hosted by weight loss groups. It is also helpful if you constantly travel or work an unusual schedule. Communication is available in real time posts as well as forums.

The pricing for Noom changes based on how many months you subscribe for. A single month costs $59 dollar, but if you subscribe for multiple months, you receive a growing discount. Two months costs $99, while four costs $129.

Other Weight Loss Programs Types

There are a lot of weight loss programs out there, and it can be tough to know which one is right for you. That's why we've broken down the best weight loss programs for women, men, people over 50, busy individuals, and more.

  • If you're looking for a weight loss program that is tailored to your specific needs, then a personalized program may be the best option for you. These programs take into account your height, weight, age, gender, and activity level to create a customized plan that will help you reach your goals.

  • If you're on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options available. Many gyms offer discounts for seniors or students, and there are also many online programs that offer lower-priced membership options.

  • If you're short on time, there are programs that can be done in 30 minutes or less. These workouts are typically high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts that maximize your time and help you burn more calories in a shorter period of time.

  • If you're more of a traditional learner and prefer weight loss books, The 4-Hour Body by Tim Ferriss and The 8-Hour Diet by David Zinczenko are two of the most popular options.
No matter what your needs are, there is a weight loss program out there that can help you reach your goals. Choose the one that's right for you and get started on your journey to a healthier, happier life.