 If you're thinking of joining Weight Watchers, perhaps you've heard many different opinions, comments and theories about the diet. You probably already know that there are hundreds of diets you could try, and sure, some diets work better for some people than others. Every person is different.
The questions and answers below will help you make an informed decision about participating in the Weight Watchers diet program.
Q: Is the Weight Watchers diet healthy?
A: Yes, this diet program is well known as a very healthy way to lose weight. Unlike many "crash" diets, Weight Watchers allows you enough flexibility to balance every item you eat. At each meal, you can have all of the essentials and even a little dessert on the side, and still lose weight.
Q: How do you lose weight with the Weight Watchers Diet?
A: They offer two different diet structures. The first plan (derived from the original Weight Watchers years ago) is the Points Value system.
 For every food you eat, there is a point value. For example, an apple is one point or one cup of rice is four points, etc. How many points you can eat during a day is determined by your current weight and height. If you are to eat 25 points in a day, then once you reach 25, you shouldn't eat anymore until the next day. Each day you will plan your meals based on how many points you are going to eat. The system is flexible also, and allows for extra points for special "treats" or special outings.
When you stay within your points, you lose weight. It's that simple!
The second plan is a "no-count" diet called the Core Plan. On the Core Plan, you don't have to count points, but rather you will eat wholesome foods in variety. This plan was designed for those who have a difficult time planning out meals according to points or those who are constantly on the go.
Q: Have others succeeded in losing weight using this plan?
A: Literally thousands of people have lost weight following this plan. Weight Watchers has been around for many, many years. By searching online for "weight watchers success stories", you can read of many happy, skinnier WeightWatchers fans.
Q: What types of food can I eat while on this program?
A: With Weight Watchers points system, you can eat virtually anything you want as long as you stay within the points range. Take into consideration that food portions make a difference in the points value as well as types of food. Some foods are much, much higher than others, so beware!
This flexibility allows for special treats and home cooked meals, which many diets prohibit. There are also foods available at the grocery store, if you're on the go often, that give the points value on the container. They're called "Smart Ones" and "Lean Cuisine" frozen dinners. These work great for lunch at work!
With the core plan, there are some limitations if you're not going to count, however, the occasional treat is allowed.
Q: Can my entire family participate in Weight Watchers?
A: Your entire family can follow the WeightWatchers diet - even the children. Each member of the family may have a different daily points cap, so keep this in mind when giving out portions.
Q: Is exercise required while on this diet program?
A: Exercise is not required, but is recommended if you're able. Walking is one of the preferred methods for many people. The benefit of exercising is that you can add points to your daily cap when you exercise. The more active you are, the more food your body will need.
Q: What about drinks - can I still have my tea and soft drinks on this diet plan?
 A: You can drink sweet tea (one glass for two points), or unsweetened tea with an artificial sweetener for 0 points - the choice is yours. Soft drinks are not recommended, but if you must drink them, get diet for 0 points. Normal soft drinks are okay occasionally, but remember to count the points value. Soft drinks may hinder weight loss due to the fact that they cause water retention and swelling, and this isn't healthy for anyone. Drink them in moderation, and you'll be fine.
Q: With the "Points" system, how are points determined for each food?
A: The points value is determined by food labels. Calculating the fiber, calories and fat grams on what's called a "Points Finder" card is very easy. Weight Watchers has all sorts of tools you can use if you join the meetings or the online version of the plan.
There are also books available which show the points values of most foods and also many restaurant foods (listed by the restaurant's name).
Q: Can I still dine out while on this program?
A: Yes, you can dine out, however, you will have to be aware of what you're eating. It's difficult to count points in a restaurant unless you use the "Dining Out" Weight Watchers book. Not all restaurants are listed in the book, only major chains. The restaurant portions are normally much larger than normal, so you may want to ask for a "to-go plate" up front and cut your food in half. Save the other half for another meal.
Q: Is Weight Watchers just another passing fad like many diets I read about?
A: No, the Weight Watchers diet has been around a long time, and is not a "fad" diet. Those who lose weight on the plan are not on a crash diet or depriving themselves of certain foods. It is a well-balanced, carefully planned diet that is healthy. People who have been successful on Weight Watchers have changed their entire lifestyle to eat this way. It's a natural transition for most people who begin the diet because it's so flexible.
The questions and answers above will shed some light on your worries about trying the Weight Watchers diet.
Weight Watchers is a very well-balanced diet that can benefit anyone. Following the plan, you won't have to worry about health issues, binges and deprivation, yo-yo dieting, etc. It's a steady, healthy way to lose weight. Check out our Weight Watchers Promotion Codes for money saving offers and discount specials.
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