What Do I Want in a Weight Loss Program?
Embarking on your weight loss journey is an important decision—and most important of all is finding a weight loss program that supports you and your goals. But what exactly are your goals, and how can you find a program that helps you become your healthiest and happiest self?
Hit “Start Quiz” to take a closer look at your personal values when it comes to your weight loss journey. By the end of the quiz, you’ll have all the tools you need to choose the perfect weight loss plan for you!
Questions Overview
- To adopt healthy long-term habits.
- To make weight loss feel more in my control.
- To improve my current health conditions.
- To live healthier without restricting my lifestyle.
- Feel accessible and easy to follow.
- Make it easy to track my progress in detail.
- Feel fun and never lonely.
- Give me the freedom to enjoy the foods I love while I lose weight.
- I want to lose weight but I’m clueless about where to start.
- I want to measure my progress in my current weight loss journey.
- I don’t have the motivation to lose weight on my own.
- I don’t want to sacrifice my current lifestyle when I’m losing weight.
- Following simple steps throughout the day.
- Keeping a weight loss journal or using an app.
- Having a friend hold me accountable.
- Incorporating the foods I like into my meals.
- I can’t make it work with my daily schedule.
- I forget to track my progress and lose momentum as a result.
- I start to feel pretty isolated and get discouraged as a result.
- I have to make too many sacrifices with eating what I like.
- I spend a simple, relaxing night in watching my favorite movies.
- I share my success on social media.
- I go out dancing with all of my closest friends.
- I treat myself to an amazing meal at my favorite restaurant.
- Remembering to record what I eat.
- Finding an effective way to track my progress.
- Feeling bored and alone in my journey.
- Giving up foods that make me happy.
- Someone wrote out all the steps for me.
- I could measure my progress easily with an app.
- I had a strong support system cheering me on.
- I didn't have to stop eating my favorite foods.
- Simplicity
- Progress
- Supportive
- Freedom
- Take it easy—you don’t have to rush.
- Keep yourself focused on the future rather than the past.
- Don’t be afraid to lean on others when times get tough.
- Celebrate the journey, not just the destination.
- “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible!’”
- “You define your own life. Don’t let other people write your script.”
- “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
- ”The secret to making progress is to get started.”
More Quizzes
idea<\/i> of starting a weight loss program, but aren\u2019t excited about all the bells, whistles, and red tape that come with it. Tracking what you eat sounds like a hassle\u2014instead, you want to develop healthy, sustainable habits that are easy to stick with and follow. The more that your weight loss program feels like work, the less successful you find that you are over time. That's why you need to follow a plan that feels natural, holistic, and simple.
We suggest:
- Mindful eating.<\/b> For the first few weeks of your diet plan, focus less on strict planning, and more on really connecting with every bite you eat. By listening carefully to your body while eating, you'll enjoy more, stop eating when your body is nourished, and get results without jumping through hoops.<\/li>
- Eating more fiber.<\/b> Fiber helps you feel fuller, which can lead to weight loss over time. By incorporating more delicious, fibrous foods into your diet, you can start getting results without a ton of extra effort.<\/li>
- Trying WeightWatchers.<\/b> Their program is known for being straightforward and easy to follow\u2014the WeightWatchers Points\u00ae Program uses a simple Points\u00ae system that makes it easy to keep tabs on the foods you enjoy. Plus, there are over 200 different foods that you don\u2019t have to track or measure at all!<\/li><\/ul>
By using a program that\u2019s all about ease and accessibility, you can focus on being the healthiest version of yourself with the support of your fellow WeightWatchers community. Best of all, WeightWatchers is both backed and<\/i> supported by nutritional science\u2014125 studies and 35 independent clinical trials agree WeightWatchers is an effective tool for weight loss.
Ready to get started? Learn which WeightWatchers journey is right for you here<\/a><\/b>.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Improve-Your-Health"}],"link_data":[{"title":"17 Pro Tips to Start Living a Healthier Lifestyle","id":180644,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle","image":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","alt":"17 Pro Tips to Start Living a Healthier Lifestyle"},{"title":"How to Improve Your Health","id":785693,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Improve-Your-Health","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Improve-Your-Health-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Improve-Your-Health-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Improve Your Health"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You need: science-backed tools and tech features.","meaning":"When it comes to your weight loss journey, you like to see physical evidence of the progress you\u2019ve made in a set amount of time. You may have frequented other health- and fitness-based tracking apps in the past, but never quite found the tech that was best for you. You want to be able to see exactly how far you\u2019ve come and plan for the next steps on your journey. In the past, weight loss has felt like a mystery, and you just want a strategy that feels predictable, clean-cut, and measurable.
Check out these tips to get started:- Set a clear goal from the outset (ex: losing 10 pounds).<\/b> Experts suggest clearly defining your goals as soon as you begin for best results. Generally speaking, your goal shouldn't require you to lose more than 1-2 pounds per week.<\/li>
- Focus on one step at a time.<\/b> According to expert advice, it's always more important to focus on your next milestone rather than the finish line. Especially for a process-oriented person like you! So be sure to set weekly goals that you can set your sights on.<\/li>
- Try WeightWatchers.<\/b> This program uses super-precise digital tools and resources to help keep you on track. Want to track your food, activities, and water intake all at once? The WeightWatchers app makes it easier than ever to collect data and monitor your progress whenever you\u2019d like. By using a program that takes the guesswork out of weight loss, you\u2019ll feel more empowered to reach your goals.<\/li><\/ul>
Best of all, WeightWatchers is both backed and<\/i> supported by nutritional science\u2014125 studies and 35 independent clinical trials agree WW is an effective tool for weight loss.
Ready to get started? Learn which WeightWatchers journey is right for you here<\/a><\/b>.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Improve-Your-Health"}],"link_data":[{"title":"17 Pro Tips to Start Living a Healthier Lifestyle","id":180644,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle","image":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","alt":"17 Pro Tips to Start Living a Healthier Lifestyle"},{"title":"How to Improve Your Health","id":785693,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Improve-Your-Health","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Improve-Your-Health-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Improve-Your-Health-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Improve Your Health"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You need: community.","meaning":"Embarking on a weight loss journey can be incredibly empowering, but it can sometimes feel like an incredibly lonely experience. When you start making progress, you\u2019ll naturally want to celebrate your accomplishments; and on tougher days, you\u2019ll want support from people who really understand what you\u2019re going through. For you, it\u2019s important to have fun, feel connected, and draw inspiration from friends. One thing\u2019s for sure: for you to feel happy and supported while you\u2019re losing weight, you need a community-oriented program!
Check out these tips to get started:- Celebrate milestones on social media.<\/b> When you hit an exciting goal, you should feel totally empowered to let your loved ones know! And if social media feels too public, send your wins to a group chat of people who love you.<\/li>
- Enjoy workout classes.<\/b> Not only are workout classes a great way to have fun and get fit, but they also have a community built in! Go to class and chat with new people; you might find yourself surrounded by friends who are on a similar journey.<\/li>
- Try WeightWatchers.<\/b> WeightWatchers believes that weight loss isn\u2019t meant to be a solo journey, so they\u2019ve developed a thriving member community that\u2019s millions strong. With a vibrant online community, a private social media network, and both in-person and virtual workshops, WeightWatchers makes it easier than ever for you to get what you need from your weight loss journey, which is accountability, support, and encouragement every step of the way.<\/li><\/ul>
Best of all, WeightWatchers is both backed and<\/i> supported by nutritional science\u2014125 studies and 35 independent clinical trials agree WW is an effective tool for weight loss.
Ready to get started? Learn which WeightWatchers journey is right for you here<\/a><\/b>.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Improve-Your-Health"}],"link_data":[{"title":"17 Pro Tips to Start Living a Healthier Lifestyle","id":180644,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle","image":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","alt":"17 Pro Tips to Start Living a Healthier Lifestyle"},{"title":"How to Improve Your Health","id":785693,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Improve-Your-Health","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Improve-Your-Health-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Improve-Your-Health-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Improve Your Health"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You need: freedom, flexibility, and delicious foods.","meaning":"One of the most overwhelming (and untrue!) aspects of weight loss is the idea that you have to say goodbye to your favorite snacks, or that you\u2019re suddenly restricted to only eating boring \u201chealth\u201d foods. You want to lose weight, but not at the cost of upending your entire diet! At the end of the day, you believe that life is meant to be enjoyed\u2014and that doesn\u2019t stop with the food you eat. That\u2019s why, according to your results, you need a program that puts an emphasis on freedom and enjoyment.
Check out these tips to get started:- Drink more water.<\/b> By hydrating your body a ton throughout the day, you'll give your body exactly what it needs to feel great, while staying fuller for longer. That means that you'll be more likely to see results, but without avoiding foods you crave!<\/li>
- Add healthy food first.<\/b> In the first week of your weight loss journey, don't focus on cutting unhealthy foods at all. Instead, just focus on adding healthy foods, like fruits, veggies, protein, and fiber.<\/li>
- Try WeightWatchers.<\/b> The WeightWatchers Points Program helps members reach their weight loss goals and build healthy habits for life without cutting out the foods they love. The WW app actually has over 12,000 weight-loss-friendly recipes that are bound to satisfy any cravings you\u2019re in the mood for. With this program, you\u2019ll have tons of food you get to try, including your favorite desserts!<\/ul>
Best of all, WeightWatchers is both backed and<\/i> supported by nutritional science\u2014125 studies and 35 independent clinical trials agree WW is an effective tool for weight loss.
Ready to get started? Learn which WeightWatchers journey is right for you here<\/a><\/b>.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Improve-Your-Health"}],"link_data":[{"title":"17 Pro Tips to Start Living a Healthier Lifestyle","id":180644,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle","image":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Live-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","alt":"17 Pro Tips to Start Living a Healthier Lifestyle"},{"title":"How to Improve Your Health","id":785693,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Improve-Your-Health","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Improve-Your-Health-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Improve-Your-Health-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Improve Your Health"}],"minimum":0}]" class="quiz_results_data"/> - Add healthy food first.<\/b> In the first week of your weight loss journey, don't focus on cutting unhealthy foods at all. Instead, just focus on adding healthy foods, like fruits, veggies, protein, and fiber.<\/li>
- Enjoy workout classes.<\/b> Not only are workout classes a great way to have fun and get fit, but they also have a community built in! Go to class and chat with new people; you might find yourself surrounded by friends who are on a similar journey.<\/li>
- Focus on one step at a time.<\/b> According to expert advice, it's always more important to focus on your next milestone rather than the finish line. Especially for a process-oriented person like you! So be sure to set weekly goals that you can set your sights on.<\/li>
- Eating more fiber.<\/b> Fiber helps you feel fuller, which can lead to weight loss over time. By incorporating more delicious, fibrous foods into your diet, you can start getting results without a ton of extra effort.<\/li>
Health & Wellness: A Personal Journey
From a scientific and nutritional standpoint, weight loss revolves around one core principle: burning more calories than you eat in a single day. But weight management doesn’t exist in a vacuum: tons of factors can contribute to a person’s weight loss journey, from a busy schedule to their genetics.
At the end of the day, weight loss is less about reaching a certain number and much more about being the happiest and healthiest version of yourself that you can be. But how do take that first small-but-ever-so-important step forward?
- Think about adding to your food rather than taking away from it.
On your weight loss journey, it can be downright overwhelming to think about all the foods you “can’t have” anymore. Instead, focus on how you can make some of your fave foods even healthier. For instance, you might order a burger from your favorite fast food joint but enjoy it with some healthy sides, like steamed broccoli or an assortment of mixed nuts.
- Rethink your relationship with fats.
As a food group/nutrient, fats have definitely gotten a bad reputation over the years. And while some fats definitely aren’t
great for you (we’re looking at you, trans fat), polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats most certainly are. Try to stock up on ingredients that are rich in these healthy fats, like walnuts, avocados, flaxseeds, canola oil, and olives.
- Switch up your go-to beverages.
Soda can be a tasty sweet treat on occasion, but it’s not the best for you in the long run. Stick with drinks like low-fat milk or unsweetened or lightly sweetened tea and coffee. Water, of course, is the best drink out there when it comes to hydration—but if you’re tired of sipping plain old H2O, infuse your glass or bottle with herbs and chopped-up fruit
(e.g., strawberries, oranges, lemons, mint, etc.).
- Practice mindful eating habits.
Mindful eating is all about being intentional about what you eat and drink throughout the day. Whether you’re sitting down for a meal or enjoying a snack, focus on engaging as many of your senses as possible as you eat and drink. Savor and appreciate each bite, and really dive into the experience of enjoying your food.
- Add exercise
to your schedule in accessible ways.
Dedicating at least 30 minutes to exercise each day can feel overwhelming (if not impossible) after a long day of classes or work. Instead, try incorporating exercise into your daily routine in small but meaningful ways—you might take the stairs rather than the elevator, for instance, or take a few minutes to stretch your legs and walk around at work.
- Incorporate your dog into your exercise routine.
Taking your dog for a walk
accomplishes 2 things: it gives your dog plenty of fresh air and mental stimulation, and it also gives you an excuse to get your blood pumping a little bit. Exercise can feel a lot more manageable when it’s naturally plugged into your schedule!
- Make your sleep schedule a top priority.
All adults need at least 7 hours of shut-eye each night, while teens need 8-10 hours to feel refreshed and alert. Try sticking to a consistent bedtime
and bed routine that works for you—ideally in a cool, dark, and electronic-free space where you can relax and unwind without any trouble.
- Practice gratitude each day. Practicing gratitude is all about focusing on the little things in life that bring you the most joy and meaning. Try keeping a journal where you jot down a few positive things that happen each day, like a meaningful conversation with a friend or a tasty meal you enjoyed. Appreciating the little things can be a huge boost to your daily mindset!
Want to learn more?
Ready to embark on a meaningful, long-term weight loss journey? Here are some expert-verified resources to help you add simple and healthy habits to your daily life:
- https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/how-to-eat-a-balanced-diet/eight-tips-for-healthy-eating/
- https://www.who.int/philippines/news/feature-stories/detail/20-health-tips-for-2020
- https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/7-tips-to-live-a-happier-life
- https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/how-to-eat-healthy-without-dieting
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/healthy-lifestyle-5-keys-to-a-longer-life-2018070514186
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