5. WW (formerly Weight Watchers)
WW, formerly Weight Watchers, is one of the most popular weight loss programs worldwide.
While it doesn’t restrict any food groups, people on a WW plan must eat within their set number of daily points to help them reach their ideal weight (24Trusted Source).
How it works
WW is a points-based system that assigns different foods and beverages a value, depending on their calorie, fat, and fiber contents.
As you work to reach your desired weight, you must stay within your daily point allowance.
Health benefits
Many studies show that the WW program can help you lose weight (25Trusted Source).
For example, a review of 45 studies found that people who followed a WW diet lost 2.6% more weight than people who received standard counseling (26Trusted Source).
What’s more, people who follow WW programs have been shown to be more successful at maintaining weight loss after several years, compared with those who follow other diets (27Trusted Source, 28Trusted Source).
Other benefits
WW allows flexibility, which makes it easy to follow. This enables people with dietary restrictions, such as those with food allergies, to adhere to the plan.
Downsides
While it allows for flexibility, WW can be costly depending on the subscription plan and the length of time you intend to follow it.
Studies show that it may take up to 52 weeks to produce significant weight loss and clinical benefits (27Trusted Source).
Additionally, its flexibility can be a downfall if dieters choose unhealthy foods.
