WeightWatchers vs. Low Carb Diet

Diet comparison

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 diets 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 diet. 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.

WW's 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


U.S. News & World Report Rankings*

#1 Best Diet for Weight-Loss in 2023

Not ranked in top 40 Diets for Weight-Loss


What can I eat on this plan?

Everything’s on the menu! The WeightWatchers program has food, activity, sleep, and mindset features designed to make weight loss easier. It builds on our proven Points system, which converts calories, saturated fat, added sugar, fibre and protein into one easy-to-use value. There are different ways to follow WW that provide tailored Points Budgets, along with ZeroPoint foods that you don’t have to track or measure. Of course, balanced, healthy eating behaviours are still recommended.

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, 24/7 live coaching, customer service, and Connect (an exclusive social network with other members for motivation and inspiration whenever you need 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.

*#1 Best Diet for Weight Loss 13 years in a row. Learn more here!

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WW low carb recipes

The WeightWatchers program is an excellent choice for all dietary preferences, including those who prefer a low or lower carb diet. Check out some of our delicious low-carb recipes to get started.

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