Continued from Weight Watchers Diet Review.

Diet Established in 1960, Overeaters Anonymous (OA) is a nonprofit support group led by volunteers.

OA urges members to seek professional advice regarding weight loss and meal plans.

Philosophy OA does not promote a particular diet. While it offers emotional and spiritual support, OA encourages its members to seek the help of professionals.

It is founded on the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous, and its members remain anonymous.

Components The only membership requirement is that a person desire to stop eating compulsively. Each OA group has one primary purpose: to carry its message to the compulsive overeater who still suffers.

A loving God, or a higher power, is at the core of the organization’s beliefs. Personal service is encouraged-no matter how small-as part of one’s recovery. Members share their personal experiences.

Each member may ask another member to be his or her sponsor, who assists the new member in working through the program steps.

Should you consider it? Yes, if you have a diet plan and you need group support for food-related issues.

Designed for people who: Need the support of others, want to remain anonymous, and like being accountable to others and/or a sponsor. OA, funded through member contributions, charges no fees to join or attend meetings.

Opinion Although it doesn’t promote a specific diet, the nature of OA is sound. The organization helps those who need group support with emotional and spiritual aspects.

A Web site, www.oa.org, gives more program information, shares real-life stories, and offers a search feature to locate meetings near you.