QuestionHi Sarah. I'm a Baruch College freshman in a writing class doing a research paper on the efficacy of Weight Watchers. I'd to ask you some questions even though I've never tried the program. 1) is the Weight Watchers Program effective? 2)What percentage of both males and females regain weight with the use of the program? 3)How does the program work? 4) Are the program's weekly group meetings beneficial? 5)What are some Weight Watchers tips?
AnswerI am sorry it took me to long to get back to you. I am familiar with the Weight Watchers program but needed to do research for your more specific questions. I hope your paper hasn't been due yet!
1. The Weight Watchers program can be effective because the main goal of the program is an overall lifestyle change, not just a quick-fix, short-term, weight-loss diet. The program can also be effective because they offer a support system with an online community and local group meetings, which many people find beneficial. Having a support system can help through difficult days, encourages participants by reminding them they are not the only one going through such diet changes, and participants also offer each other tips and recipes. Attending meetings instead of participating online can also be effective because participants are weighed at the meetings and may feel more accountable for weight gain. (Our local Weight Watchers group used to print weights in the newspaper...which was good for keeping participants accountable but also negative since a lot of people quit if they had any weight gain for fear of having a weight gain printed in the paper 2 weeks in a row!)
2. I could not find information about male and female specific weight loss and regain. One study found their Weight Watchers group maintained a 4.6% weight loss after one year and a 3% weight loss after two years. Another study found subjects who participated in Weight Watchers but were also followed by a registered dietitian had a 10% weight loss after one year. Yet another study found men were more likely to be succesful than women at losing weight, but the researchers claimed it wasn't because of Weight Watchers specifically but because men typically find it easier to lose weight than women. Sorry I can't be of more help with this question, but I actually spent a lot of time searching.
3. Weight Watchers currently uses a points system (the latest is called the "Momentum" plan). Each person gets a certain points allotment based on their height, weight, age, and gender. Foods (any food) are then given points based on calorie, fat, and fiber content. Some foods (such as prepackaged Weight Watchers food) provide the points on the packaging, points for other foods are determined by the participant. Participants are encouraged to keep a food diary to track their intake and points.
4. See the answer for #3.
5. Weight Watchers tips include: find a buddy to walk with and keep track of your physical activity, consume fresh fruits and vegetables to reduce calorie intake and increase fiber, do not make any food off-limits, and keep a food diary. The Weight Watchers online site also defines cooking terms, has recipes and snack ideas, provides physical exercise information, contains tips for eating out, and offers specific information on age-specific issues such as infertility and menopause.
I hope that helps you out. Good luck!
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