Continued from Slim-Fast Diet Review.

Diet The program focuses on a low-fat diet, exercise, and group counseling. No foods are restricted.

The program, led by trained members who have lost weight through Weight Watchers, is based on reducing calories using the program’s points system.

Philosophy The program promotes slow, steady weight loss through healthful eating habits, physical activity, and group support for long-term maintenance.

Components Group support and weekly weigh-ins help participants track weight loss. The program offers a nutritionally sound diet with a varied selection of foods. The point system allows participants to track daily food intake.

Should you consider it? Yes, if you can find the time to attend group meetings. The program is widely available, and the points system appears on prepackaged foods and in restaurants.

If you aren’t able to attend meetings, an at-home program is available online. The program costs from $45 to $60 per month.

Designed for people who: Like the idea of regular weigh-ins and group support. It’s also good for those who don’t want to exclude foods from their diet.

Opinion With online services, a magazine, group support, and food products behind it, the Weight Watchers program provides a workable diet plan. It is flexible and comes at a reasonable cost.

I personally know several people who have successfully lost weight on Weight Watchers and kept it off. Of course, this does not mean that the program will work for anyone.