NutriSystem Program OverviewStarted in 1972 with traditional brick and mortar weight loss centers, the NutriSystem program now utilizes pre-packaged “heat and eat” meals that you order online from their website or over the phone. A variety of program options are available including plans specifically for men, women, those over 60, type-II diabetics, and vegetarians. How the Program Works You can choose either a pre-selected 28-day supply (Favorite Foods package) or customize your own menu. You typically order on a monthly basis with your food shipped directly to your home. In either case, you receive a supply of NutriSystem food sufficient for you to eat 5 times per day. You typically will supplement the pre-packaged meals with a few grocery store items like fresh fruit, vegetables, salads, and dairy products. Your typical daily calories will vary from 1200 to 1500, and each day’s menu consists of 3 meals and 2 snacks. The macro-nutrient ratios of the pre-packaged foods are approximately 55% carbohydrates, 25% protein and 20% fats. The latest program is called NutriSystem Advanced and offers two choices – a 28-day plan or a 5-day Flex plan. The 28-day plan provides a 28-day supply of pre-packaged meals, desserts, and snacks for you to eat 5 times per day every day. The 5-day Flex plan provides a 20-day supply for the month. You use the pre-packaged meals and snacks 5 days per week and have 2 “flex” days where you provide your own meals. As part of this plan, you receive a Meal Planner with suggestions for what to eat on your flex days. If you eat out on flex days, the Meal Planner has a “dining out” section to help you make program-friendly choices in restaurants. Whether you choose the 28-day plan or the 5-day Flex plan, there are several options available, including Women's, Men's, Women's Silver, Men's Silver, Women's Type II Diabetic, Men's Type II Diabetic or Vegetarian. You simply decide which plan is right for you and either order a pre-selected Favorite Foods package or customize your own menu from the more than 120 food items. NutriSystem recognizes the importance of adopting life-long healthy eating habits as well as exercise. To encourage this, the program includes the Mindset Makeover behavior modification guide and an exercise DVD. Other than these resources, though, you are mostly on your own to learn and adopt life-long healthy eating and exercise behaviors. Program Costs Note that the Men’s program option is slightly more expensive at approximately $330-$380 per month (depending on your autoship preference) as it provides a higher-calorie menu for the month. The 5-day Flex plan costs approximately $235 per month, except the Men’s program cost is approximately $260 per month. The company also frequently runs various promotions such as 2 free weeks of food when you sign up for the 28-day Advanced plan, etc. Conclusion The cost of the program is also very reasonable and is an attraction for many people. Note, however, that you typically supplement the NutriSystem foods with some grocery store food which adds to the monthly cost of the program. The primary drawback of this plan is the lack of education about nutrition and healthy eating and exercise habits that are necessary to maintain your weight loss throughout your life. The pre-packaged meals are great for losing weight but you may find that you are not well equipped to maintain your results once you transition away from the pre-packaged food. If the convenience and affordability of this plan appeal to you, the 5-day Flex plan may be the better choice as it helps you learn to make healthy eating choices on your 2 “flex” days per week. Preparing some of your own meals each week may be what ultimately helps you learn how to maintain the weight loss results you achieve on the program.
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The NutriSystem foods include low Glycemic Index carbohydrates, optimal amounts of protein and fiber, and are low in fat. This nutritionally- balanced food also helps keep your blood sugar levels stable. More recently, the company has incorporated Omega-3s and soluble fiber to promote heart health. This is reported to benefit those with concerns of high cholesterol as well as weight loss.
