In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
Total Health

NutriSystem

Reviewed By:
Lynn Grieger, RD

NutriSystem basics

Nutrisystem DietAccording to nutrisystem.com, their plan allows you to "lose weight in the comfort of your own home."

The well-designed Web site gives each person an individualized calorie level to help you lose between 1.5 and 2 pounds each week. The core of the plan relies on NutriSystem foods used as entrees for breakfast, lunch and dinner plus DESSERTS.

You don't have to buy their foods to participate in the program, but the meal plan revolves around the NutriSystem products, supplemented with fruit, vegetables and milk.

Upside of the NutriSystem Diet

  • Good if you don't want to plan meals or portions.

  • Offers a variety of options, including a vegetarian plan.

  • Good low-fat choices, balanced diet based on the USDA Food Guide Pyramid.

  • Good support with personal counselor, newsletters, chats and e-mails.

Downside of the NutriSystem Diet

  • Cost of food may be high.

  • Can be difficult and more expensive to buy for more than one person.

  • In addition to their packaged foods, you also have to buy fruits, vegetables and milk.

  • Opinions vary about the quality and taste of the prepackaged food.

Is NutriSystem for You?

This chart can help you see how NutriSystem fits your goals and lifestyle concerns.

Duration
 As long as you like
Restaurants
 Only if they agree to microwave the NutriSystem food or you skip the NutriSystem plan for that meal
Alcohol No
Caffeine Yes
Special Foods Yes, the basis of their program is prepackaged meals. You can opt out of their meals, but then meal planning is left entirely up to you with very little guidance for the types of foods or quantities you should eat.
Family Friendly No, unless you never eat together or all eat the NutriSystem foods
Vegetarian Friendly Yes, there is an All-Vegetarian Program available

Sample NutriSystem Menu

Here is a sample meal plan for NutriSystem:

Breakfast:

  • Low-fat granola cereal with milk, fruit

Lunch:

  • Pasta parmesan with broccoli

Snack:

  • Mint chocolate crunch bar

Dinner:

  • Beef tacos
  • Salad with fat-free dressing

Dessert:

  • Caramel crunch popcorn

Lynn Grieger, RD on NutriSystem

NutriSystem is a healthy, balanced meal plan that takes the guesswork out of dieting. However, it doesn't prepare you for lifelong changes, unless you plan on using their food forever.

iVillagers on NutriSystem

"I have been on the NutriSystem weight loss program for over a year and have lost 111 pounds. I have learned portion control, healthy eating habits and the benefits of exercise, and feel better and happier than I have in years." -- An iVillager

"I tried the NutriSystem diet and lost 107 pounds in approximately one year. Unfortunately, I could have purchased a new car for what the program cost, and the car would have lasted longer than my new figure did. After I started eating regular foods the pounds came back." -- An iVillager

See what other iVillagers have to say and weigh in with your own comments and stories on our Message Boards:
          advertisement
advertisement