How do Weight Watchers Points Work?

In a recent blog post I elaborated a little bit about what Weight Watchers plan followers are able to eat. Highlighting the fact that there aren’t any forbidden foods with this program. Owing to a few emails I received about it I decided to go into a bit more detail about how points are calculated in the PointsPlus system, and hopefully this will give some readers a clearer idea of what they can actually eat while following the Weight Watchers weight-loss program. Let’s get started.

How are Points Calculated?

The first thing there is to know about this system is that each food-stuff has received a PointsPlus value that has been calculated
taking into consideration the food’s level of fat, carbs, fibre and protein. More specifically, foods that are high in fibre and low in fat are attributed low point
values. And vice versa. Once you have joined you’ll get a daily personalized PointsPlus target, so you know how much to eat in order to
lose weight safely―while feeling satisfied.

Why Focus on Fibre?

Good question. Probably one of the toughest parts about following a weight-loss program is respecting your food intake on a daily basis while managing to feel full.
This is why Weight Watchers prioritizes foods with high levels of fibre, as these usually help you maintain that feeling of satisfaction or ‘fullness’. In general,
foods that combine a high level of fibre and low levels of fat, carbs and protein are fruits and vegetables. This is why this food group is so present in the
PointsPlus system, as their general bulkiness and high levels of nutrients help you feel full. Obviously, your diet cannot entirely consist
of vegetables and fruits and this is where Weight Watchers is most helpful, providing you with healthy recipes and helpful strategies that should help you
balance your diet.

The Bottom Line

In the end, the PointsPlus system pretty much takes care of doing the math for its users, helping you avoid fattening foods and to simplify the whole process of quantifying. In other words, it doesn’t only help you get a better idea of what should end up on your plate but also how much of it, while also allowing you a few indulgences along the way. Whether you decide to follow it to the letter that’s a whole different story. It is said at the Weight Watchers Online Canada website that subscribers can expect to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week, which may not seem like much at first, but this adds up pretty rapidly. Have a look at these success stories to get inspired and motivated. If you’re interested in signing up, check out the latest Weight Watchers Online promotions available to save as much as 35% on the purchase of 3 month Savings Plan.

Are there any other point systems that you have found to work? Or have you first hand experience with the PointsPlus system? We would love to hear from you.