Keto vs. WeightWatchers: A comparison of two popular weight-loss programs
Keto has become very popular lately, but in reality, it's a highly restrictive diet that is difficult for the average person to maintain over the long haul. Additionally, it lacks the scientific support of WeightWatchers.
While keto encourages an 80% fat diet, it makes no distinction between healthy and unhealthy fats. Similarly, all carbohydrates are restricted, with no differentiation between types.
WeightWatchers, on the other hand, uses a science-backed Point system to differentiate between healthy and unhealthy fats and carbohydrates. Each food and drink is assigned a Points value based on factors like kilojoules (calories), saturated fat, sugar, and protein. Foods that are high in sugar and/or saturated fat are assigned higher a Points value, while those higher in protein receive lower a Points value. By choosing foods with lower Points, you'll be directed towards healthier options.
Unlike keto, WeightWatchers offers a sustainable approach to weight loss and healthy living that allows you to eat the foods you love while still losing weight. No foods are off-limits, so you can enjoy a balanced and satisfying diet.
10 reasons why you should consider WeightWatchers over keto
1. Keto is a complex do-it-yourself diet that eliminates most carbohydrates and encourages you to eat a lot of fat. On the other hand, the WeightWatchers program has been proven to be two times more effective for weight loss than doing it on your own.
2. Keto is hard to stick to because it eliminates a lot of foods. Maintaining a diet that is mostly fat and very low in carbohydrates is difficult for the long run for most people. Carbohydrates are not only found in bread and pasta but in foods with broader health benefits like fruits and vegetables. With the WeightWatchers program, everything is on the menu, you can still eat the foods you love and see weight-loss success. And being able to still enjoy your favourite foods means you are more likely to stick to it long-term.
3. The keto diet is typically high in saturated fat which can increase the risk of heart disease and some cancers.
4. Keto does not align with the Australian Dietary Guidelines due to its emphasis on saturated fats, high-consumption of animal proteins, and limited fruits and vegetables. The WeightWatchers program is aligned with the Australian Dietary Guidelines. Both encourage eating whole foods, fruits and vegetables, consuming lean sources of protein, and limiting saturated fats as doing so can help lower your risk of heart disease.
5. The WeightWatchers program has been ranked #1 Best Diet for Weight Loss for the 13th consecutive year by U.S. News & World Report Rankings.
6. If you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, you may find it challenging to adhere to a keto diet. This is because the high-fat foods that are typically advised for the keto diet are primarily animal-based, such as meat, cheese, butter, and high-fat dairy. On the other hand, the WeightWatchers program works well with a plant-based diet as most fruits and vegetables are ZeroPoint foods on most plans. Plant-based sources of protein like tofu, beans, and lentils are also optional ZeroPoint foods.
7. Eating meals with friends and family, as well as eating out are much more manageable with WW as no foods are off-limits and you get a personalised Points Budget to use however you want. It can be difficult to prepare and consume keto foods in the context of work and family without multiple menus.
8. Keto has little social support. With WeightWatchers you have the support of the entire WW community which you can access through our app or in person. You will get access to community support via Connect, 24/7 live chat to a coach who can give you expert advice, or if you are a Premium member, you can get additional support at your WW Workshop each week.
9. The WeightWatchers program is backed by science with over 100 published studies and numerous randomised clinical trials showing that WW is more effective for weight loss than self-help, university-based treatment, and physician advice. WW has also been shown to be effective among individuals with diabetes and prediabetes.
10. The WeightWatchers program focuses on overall wellness, not just weight loss. It encourages healthy habits like getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and being physically active. This holistic approach can lead to improved energy levels, better mood, and overall better health outcomes. Keto, on the other hand, primarily focuses on weight loss and does not address overall wellness.
The key to losing weight and maintaining weight loss is a holistic and sustainable approach. WeightWatchers helps you to gradually build a healthier eating pattern, be a little more active each day, and learn how to shift your mindset, for long term weight loss success.