WeightWatchers vs. Low Carb Diet
WeightWatchers® vs. Low Carb diet
Losing weight can be tough—we’re here to make it easier. In this article, we'll compare the low carb diet with the WeightWatchers weight loss program. We'll examine the types of foods consumed, potential health risks, and how easy it is to incorporate both options into your daily routine.
Does a low-carb diet work for weight loss?
For years, low-carb diets have been a top choice for weight loss enthusiasts. There are several different approaches to low-carb eating, including the Atkins Diet, the Keto Diet, and the Paleo Diet.
Low-carb eating plans generally require cutting out or reducing your intake of foods containing carbohydrates. This can mean that healthy, nutritious carbs including wholegrains, legumes, and even some fruits and vegetables are off the menu.
Carbohydrates are essential for a well-balanced eating plan. Plus, when you cut them out, your brain stops regulating serotonin, a chemical that elevates mood. Trying to stick to a low-carb diet may also bump up your risk of consuming too much unhealthy fats.
The WeightWatchers Points Program gives you the flexibility to include carbs like bread and pasta; however, these generally have a higher Points® value compared to lean proteins and veggies. You'll find that your Points Budget naturally nudges you towards healthier food choices, and may naturally result in a reduction of carbs in your diet.
While people can experience weight loss following a low-carb diet, there is a risk of nutrient deficiencies which can negatively impact the digestive system long term.
If you are considering a low-carb diet for weight loss, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to ensure that it is safe and suitable for your individual needs and health status. Additionally, it is important to focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
Low-carb diet |
What can I eat on this plan?
| A low-carb diet means that you eat less carbohydrates and more fat and protein. This is similar to a keto diet and focuses on avoiding foods containing sugar and starchy foods like rice, beans, bread, and potatoes. |
Liveability
The program has been developed based on principles of nutrition and behaviour-change science to build healthy habits around food, activity, sleep, and mindset. Our easy-to-use features, including our 'What's in your fridge' tool that suggests recipes based on what you already have, techniques that you can learn through 5-minute audio coaching sessions, and weekly topics help guide members towards smarter food choices, moving more, sleeping better, and more helpful ways of thinking. | A low carb diet is highly restrictive and therefore science shows it is unlikely to be sustainable long-term. |
Health risks
WeightWatchers was named the #1 doctor-recommended weight-loss program based on a 2020 IQVIA survey of 14,000 doctors who recommend weight-loss programs to patients (US study). | Due to the lack of grains and cereals consumed in this diet, there is a risk of nutrient deficiency including B vitamins and a reduction in fibre intake, which can negatively impact the digestive system. |
Social support
In-person and virtual workshops, WW coaches, round-the-clock live coaching, customer service, and Connect (a private social network with fellow members for ongoing motivation and inspiration whenever you require it). | Blogs written by followers of the low carb diet and online communities exist, but there is no central organisation providing guidance from qualified experts. |