2007 A New Year
A new year, time for New Years Resolutions. I think it’s good to have short term and long term goals. This really helps with motivation – short term successes help keep a positive attitude and momentum going in the right direction. I also believe that New Years resolutions should be achievable and limited in scope, not things like achieve world peace (sorry too great a challenge).
I have a very clear short term goal. Loose the pounds I gained in December. It was only about 5 and I think most of it is bloating and will drop pretty fast. If I do that quickly, it will be easier to focus on my long term weight loss and health goals.
My longer term goal is to get back to the main reason I started this blog, to write about weight loss. My intention has been to evaluate online weight loss programs. What should be the criteria to evaluate a weight loss program? Success rate is always important but it’s probably not possible to get accurate data. My belief is that almost any of the weight loss programs will work if you stick with it. It’s important then to find a program that you can stick with and that is an individual decision.
Weight Loss Program Evaluation Criteria
The Diet Programs
This initial list was selected because they are well known programs with a large online presence. The list is in alphabetical order and gives some highlights of the program. More in depth reviews will come later.
The Biggest Loser – Based on the popular TV show, the online program provides meal plans and work out routines used in the show. The fitness trainer from the Biggest Loser is available for consultation in the message boards.
Diet.com – This program provides a customized plan based on a profile that is filled out. Online forums provide support.
Dr. Weil’s My Optimum Health Plan – Not strictly a weight loss program, this is a program for good health! Dr. Weil helps you address your health goals and provides an online weight tracker and message board with supportive community.
eDiets.com – eDiets is known for their flexibility and variety! They provide customized diet programs based on personal goals, food preferences, and lifestyles. With this program you can do the Mayo Clinic diet, Atkins, Cholesterol Lowering diets and many more options. eDiets is one of the biggest programs out there with a huge online community.
Medifast – Provides low calorie, pre-measured Medifast Meals which are vitamin fortified and nutrionally balanced. Medifast Meals are clinically proven and recommended by physicians!
Sonoma Diet – The most flavorful weight loss plan, online and customized! Wine is encouraged but not required and helps dieters maintain a healthy heart while boosting enjoyment during a meal.
Zone Chefs (formerly Zone Diet at Home) – Provides nationwide delivery of fresh and frozen meals making it a convenient, results oriented, and unique program.