Dietary and nutritional content reviewed by Jasmin Gorostiza, DT, DM, DSS, CFPP.️
We have been bombarded with a lot of questions on Nutrisystem.
A lot of people interested in Nutrisystem have been asking us the following questions:
- “Can you really lose weight on Nutrisystem safely and effectively?”
- “Does this diet really work?”
- “Can you please provide details on why this diet works?”
Well, we had questions ourselves so we decided to seriously dig deeper into this popular diet. Here’s what we found out …
For starters, did you know that people on the Nutrisystem program are losing weight eating food items such as these shown below?
Really?!? People are losing weight by eating those types of meals?
So we got super intrigued and decided to see if they had actual people willing to share their success stories regarding their journey with the Nutrisystem program.
Here is what we found. Just click on their pictures if you want to read their weight loss journey with Nutrisystem.
So okay, it appears that people are indeed losing weight on this weight loss program.
So okay, it appears that people are indeed losing weight on this weight loss program.
With that, we decided to look deeper into why this program works, what are its drawbacks, and other important details about the program.
Here is what we found out.
But first …
Why Lose Weight?
Did you know that losing excess weight will do so much more than make you feel good about your appearance? By losing weight, you are bound to improve so many facets of your health and most importantly, your life.
In fact, even just losing as little as 5% to 10% of your total body weight will likely lower cholesterol, reduce blood sugars, and lower blood pressure.
In fact, even just losing as little as 5% to 10% of your total body weight will likely lower cholesterol, reduce blood sugars, and lower blood pressure.
Maintaining weight loss has even more benefits. Studies conducted by the National Weight Control Registry found those who maintained weight loss had more energy, better mobility, and improved mood.
Despite knowing the importance of weight loss, many of us remain challenged with how to reach our goals.
Despite knowing the importance of weight loss, many of us remain challenged with how to reach our goals. We try the latest diet fads with inconsistent results.
Although you can lose weight on your own terms, it’s not always easy.
For a lot of people, it can be a very painful and frustrating process.
You may have to experiment with eating plans and also spend large amounts of money to shop for the foods needed to drop the pounds.
Also, there’s little to no accountability when you set off to lose weight on your own. When you’re not tracking your food intake or watching your portions, it’s very easy to overindulge.
The end result is a cycle of frustration that eventually leads a person to give up on their goal of losing weight.
So What Exactly Is Nutrisystem?
Nutrisystem is a weight loss plan that provides prepackaged foods and food recommendations that are delivered right to your door. The company’s headquarters are in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania and it was founded in 1972.
Thanks to Nutrisystem’s very popular spokesperson, Marie Osmond, who has lost around 50 lbs on this program (and yes, she does look great!), Nutrisystem has really gained a lot of traction.
Thanks to Nutrisystem’s very popular spokesperson, Marie Osmond, who has lost around 50 lbs on this program (and yes, she does look great!), Nutrisystem has really gained a lot of traction.
Not only that, she’s kept the weight off since starting on this program more than 5 or 6 years ago.
Watch the 30-second video below and see what Marie has to say about Nutrisystem:
Marie provides more details about how she lost weight on Nutrisystem in the video below:
Nutrisystem makes losing weight a no-brainer. There’s no calorie counting involved with the plan. Instead of cooking your own healthy meals, all of the legwork has been done for you. Depending on the plan you choose, your monthly delivery will include a variety of ready-to-go meals, frozen foods, protein bars, and shakes.
… the meals have been crafted to remove all the “bad” stuff and leave the healthy ingredients behind. In fact, Nutrisystem doesn’t include ingredients proven to be detrimental to health.
Many of the plans are customizable to allow you to choose your favorite foods. Foods are delicious and not typically what we think of as “diet” foods. Options include pancakes, muffins, pasta, hamburgers, cookies, and more. However, the meals have been crafted to remove all the “bad” stuff and leave the healthy ingredients behind.
In fact, Nutrisystem does not include ingredients proven to be detrimental to health. Food produced by Nutrisystem doesn’t include MSG, aspartame, high fructose syrup, or hydrogenated oils.
To prepare both frozen and ready-to-go meals, you simply heat the package up in minutes in a microwave. Some of the items don’t require preheating and can be consumed right out of the packaging. As you try out the different food options, you’ll track your favorites and can adjust future orders accordingly.
Here is a sample daily menu:
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- Breakfast: Cinnamon roll and a bowl of fresh berries
- Mid-Morning Snack: String cheese and veggies
- Lunch: Classic hamburger sandwich
- Afternoon Snack: Nutrisystem vanilla shake
- Dinner: Chicken parmesan and spaghetti
- Snack: Chocolate chip cookie
Weight loss results vary from individual to individual, but with the Uniquely Yours plan from Nutrisystem, you could lose as much as 13 pounds in your first month.
Weight loss results vary from individual to individual, but with the Uniquely Yours plan from Nutrisystem, you could lose as much as 13 pounds in your first month.
Nutrisystem includes weight loss support options as part of its programs. This includes access to their online weight loss tools like a handy smartphone application to track meals and monitor progress.
Why Does Nutrisystem Work For People Wanting To Lose Weight?
The principle behind the system is to control portions and calories in order to promote weight loss. This is done through a three-pronged approach: Portion control, balanced nutrition, and frequent meals.
1. Portion Control.
Many of the foods in the system are prepackaged. This allows for perfect portions every single time and cuts down on the omission of many favorite foods that on other plans have been labeled “bad.”
2. Balanced Nutrition.
The menus provide the “right mix of nutrients” that encourage good health while satisfying cravings. They are packaged in such a way that the nutrients help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for a longer period of time.
3. Frequent Meals.
The system provides six meals a day which helps boost your metabolism while helping you fight hunger. This means you are less likely to go looking for a sugar-laden, fat-filled snack when you are hungry. Instead, you’ll just pick up your next meal.
The premise behind the system is to control portions and calories in order to promote weight loss. This is done through a three-pronged approach: Portion control, balanced nutrition, and frequent meals.
The foods have fewer calories and carbs, less fat and sugar, and more fiber than many of the foods you’ll find on your grocer’s shelves. Everything is prepackaged so it is super convenient as well.
You can watch the video below to get answers to frequently asked questions about Nutrisystem.
Nutrisystem At-A-Glance
Here is a summary of what we learned about Nutrisystem.
The Pros |
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1. It Works 2. Totally Convenient 3. Specialized Plans Available For Various Types Of Dieters 4. Awesome Support Team 5. Online Tools To Help You Achieve Your Goals 6. Available Meal Plans For Diabetics 7. Easy To Bring Meals 8. Very Affordable. |
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The Cons |
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1. Not Recommended For Certain People With Health Conditions 2. Requires Some Initial “Eating Mindset” Adjustments 3. Difficult To Eat Out While On The Plan |
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Please note: For details on the above pros and cons, please scroll down below. |
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The Pros: The Key Reasons Why We Love Nutrisystem
Summarized below are the reasons why we love this diet program:
1. It Works.
The appeal of Nutrisystem, aside from the pre-packaged foods that make it so easy, is the success that so many people have had with it.
The appeal of Nutrisystem, aside from the pre-packaged foods that make it so easy, is the success that so many people have had with it. Real people report losing anywhere from 20 pounds to more than 100 pounds.
In fact, the Nutrisystem Success Stories page is filled with testimonials of people who have used the system and lost weight. It’s really very inspiring to read how people lost weight significantly (one person lost as much as 249 pounds!) and changed their life.
Keep in mind that those results are not typical. However, if you do stick with the system like those who have successfully lost weight with Nutrisystem, it is possible that you may also achieve your weight loss goals.
Nutrisystem works because each plan is carefully formulated by dieticians and nutrition specialists. They ensure that there is plenty of lean protein and most of the food is free of preservatives.
Nutrisystem works because each plan is carefully formulated by dieticians and nutrition specialists. They ensure that there is plenty of lean protein and most of the food is free of preservatives.
The carbs are low glycemic so your blood sugar is better stabilized while the high fiber helps you to feel fuller, longer. There are also no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. You also get a list of dairy, vegetables, fruits, fresh meat, and nuts to eat with your Nutrisystem meals.
2. Totally Convenient.
One of the main reasons the Nutrisystem plan works is because they make it easy and convenient for you. Who doesn’t like convenience? Everything is prepared and packaged for you. They take the work out of planning a menu and shopping for tons of ingredients.
It is one step from having your own personal chef to prepare and cook your foods for you. All you have to do is purchase the Nutrisystem products that you like and eat them according to the plan.
One of the main reasons the Nutrisystem plan works is because they make it easy and convenient for you. Who doesn’t like convenience?
Convenience is a major advantage of the Nutrisystem weight loss plan. Many of us have a very busy lifestyle and don’t have the time to research and cook our own healthy food. The weight loss plan is easy to stick with for an extended period of time because the majority of the work is done on your behalf.
Each nutritious meal is made up of 55% carbohydrates, 25% protein, and 20% fat. All of your foods will come at once for the entire month and each day you’ll have to simply pick and choose what meals you want to eat. Portions are automatically controlled, so you don’t have to worry about overeating.
3. Specialized Plans Available For Various Types Of Dieters.
Nutrisystem has weight loss plans designed specifically for men, women, diabetics, and vegetarians. Each specialized plan has plenty of meal options included to avoid boredom with the menu.
For instance, the vegetarian option has 90 meals to choose from while the diabetic plan has over 100 menu items. Traditional men’s and women’s plans have up to 150 foods available.
4. Awesome Support Team.
Weight-loss support is also available online with a dietician. In fact, Nutrisystem was also awarded by Newsweek as America’s Best Customer Service. That pretty much speaks for itself.
5. Online Tools To Help You Achieve Your Goals.
The Nutrisystem application sends reminders about tracking meals, staying hydrating, and exercising a minimum of 30 minutes daily. The online tools also help you make the transition off of the weight loss program by including healthy living articles and calorie-controlled recipes.
6. Available Meal Plans For Diabetics.
Diabetics and people with other health conditions like hypertension have found success with the Nutrisystem plan. Nutrisystem tends to work well with people who are able to eat most foods and engage in regular physical activity.
Exercise is an important part of the plan, as it is with any weight loss program and for health and wellness in general.
Nutrisystem is perfect for people who are on the go and don’t have time or simply don’t want to take the time to count calories and measure portions.
7. Easy To Bring Meals.
Nutrisystem is perfect for people who are on the go and don’t have time or simply don’t want to take the time to count calories and measure portions. Many of the meals are easily portable so they can be eaten on the run and packed well in a lunchbox.
8. Very Affordable.
We compared Nutrisystem to other leading weight loss programs and found Nutrisystem to be relatively more affordable.
The cost of meals per day may range between $8.93 to $12.86, depending on the plan. This is far more affordable than other weight loss programs in the market, the costs of which may range from $11.50 to $21.50.
Please Note: For the latest pricing on Nutrisystem plans, please check their website. We just wanted to let you know that plan prices for Nutrisystem may be subject to change as of this writing. We do not have any control over any pricing changes that Nutrisystem may decide to implement. However, we will do our best to keep up-to-date with the plan pricing schedules for this market-leading online weight loss program.
Smart Tip: Make sure to use any available offer codes for Nutrisystem so that you can get some significant savings. Every so often, Nutrisystem would offer a 25 to 30% discount on their products. Sometimes they have some major promos offering 50% discounts. Make sure to grab the 50% discount offers as opportunities like these are not offered that often.
The Cons: Factors You Should Be Aware Of Regarding This Diet
Like other diet programs, Nutrisystem is not perfect. Below are what we believe are some potential cons with this diet program.
1. Not Recommended For Certain People With Health Conditions.
The system is not appropriate for people who:
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- Are pregnant
- Have allergies to peanuts, soy, or latex
- Are bulimic or anorexic
- Have chronic kidney disease
- Have health conditions that require a gluten-free diet
- Have health conditions that require a ketogenic diet
- Are younger than 14 years old
This list is not comprehensive so talking to your doctor before starting the program is a smart move.
Young people ages 14 through 17 have special nutritional needs and Nutrisystem has developed a specific program just for them. It can be purchased by calling the toll-free number.
Nursing mothers may use the plan, but it will need to be adjusted in order to meet the increased demands placed on their bodies due to milk production and nursing an infant. They can email a Nutrisystem dietician to get that information.
2. Requires Some Initial “Eating Mindset” Adjustments.
A challenge that you may have initially with the plan is that although the program offers a lot of variety, you may feel that you are not getting enough to eat when first starting out. That has been a very common issue with people starting out on Nutrisystem.
The truth is, a lot of people really do not realize how much food they are eating on a daily basis. When they start with a portion control diet like Nutrisystem, they tend to feel like they are not getting enough food.
The truth is, a lot of people really do not realize how much food they are eating on a daily basis. When they start with a portion control diet like Nutrisystem, they tend to feel like they are not getting enough food.
This can be discouraging for some, but this is really one of those things that make this diet a lifestyle change and not just a quick fix.
3. Difficult To Eat Out While On The Plan.
Another issue is you may find it difficult to eat out while following the plan. However, Nutrisystem does include a guide with your first order to help make smart choices while dining in restaurants. The guide is also available online as a PDF download online.
You just really have to plan accordingly if you plan to eat out while on the Nutrisystem plan. It’s still doable.
Effectiveness Formula: Meal Plans That Are Tailored To Your Specific Needs
With its long history of helping people lose weight and through its advanced research facilities, Nutrisystem has broken down losing weight into a complete science. The company knows that one diet does not fit all. Hence, they have developed meal plans that are tailored to your specific needs and requirements.
Nutrisystem has broken down losing weight into a complete science.
There are a variety of Nutrisystem plans for both women and men and these are broken down into 7 distinct plans depending on your needs and requirements. Just click on the plans below to get more details and the latest prices.
1. Basic
This plan has pre-selected foods for 4 weeks. It is the least expensive plan on the system.
2. Core
You can choose from more than 100 food options and you have unlimited support from dietitians and counselors as well as weight loss tools and trackers.
3. Uniquely Yours
This includes everything that is on the Core plan but it also comes with a selection of more than 150 snacks and meals, unlimited frozen foods, and you can mix and match the non-frozen and frozen foods for total menu freedom.
4. Vegetarian Plan
This plan offers meatless options but does include animal products like cheese and yogurt. It has all the options of the Core Plan and you can choose from more than 90 vegetarian selections.
5. Diabetes Basic
The 4-week kit contains ready-to-go foods that are pre-selected for diabetics.
6. Diabetes Core
This plan offers you choices. You can either choose from more than 100 foods or take the Favorites Pack. You also get unlimited support from dieticians and certified diabetes educators as well as trackers and tools.
7. Diabetes Uniquely Yours
This plan gives you the most choices and the best variety along with your choice of frozen foods. Take your pick from more than 145 snacks and meals, unlimited frozen food, and choose your menu your way.
All Nutrisystem plans are shipped in 4-week increments and have free FedEx shipping.
The Key To Success: Making Dieting Effective And Convenient
Consider this. Planning meals, doing the groceries, cooking, and cleaning up will definitely cost you time. Add to this the stress and effort of having to do all these yourself, there is no doubt that Nutrisystem does offer a significant amount of value in terms of overall cost and time-savings.
In fact, most fans of Nutrisystem, especially those who live a busy lifestyle, always point out that Nutrisystem definitely is very convenient.
Nutrisystem helps in making things a lot easier and convenient for you so that you can focus on just losing weight and finding more time to do things that you enjoy most.
Nutrisystem helps in making things a lot easier and convenient for you so that you can focus on just losing weight and finding more time to do the things that you enjoy most.
You no longer will have to count calories, prepare and cook your meals from scratch, and do all the brainwork required to plan your meals each and every day until you achieve your goal.
Hot Success Tips To Guarantee Weight Loss On Nutrisystem
In order to maximize your success in losing weight with Nutrisystem, here is a list of things that you must do while on this diet program:
1. Sort your first meal shipment carefully.
To help you start off on the right foot, separate the FreshStart Week 1 kit from the rest of the food in your order — the kit contains diet-friendly meals, shakes, and bars you need for week one, picked especially for you to jump-start your weight loss.
Try to hold back from ripping the box open and emptying all the contents onto your counter. Newbies often make that weight loss mistake — jumbling all the meals and snacks into one confusing mess.
2. Wait a week before working out.
That’s because week one on the weight loss program is a little more calorie-restricted than the rest. Give your body a chance to adjust before trying a new exercise class or doing any intense activity.
Starting week two, you can ease into exercise with short walks in the afternoon and evening, for example; then gradually up your pace as you get more comfortable.
3. Eat everything (even if you’re not hungry).
You need to work SmartCarbs and PowerFuels into your weight loss meal plan.
And yes, you should eat at least four servings of non-starchy veggies — like broccoli, carrots, lettuce, and tomatoes — every day, in addition to your Nutrisystem meals and snacks.
4. Drink enough water.
The Nutrisystem meal plan recommends 64 daily ounces (or 8 eight-ounce glasses a day). Squeeze a little lemon juice or toss orange slices into your water if it helps you get it down.
5. Talk to a Nutrisystem weight loss counselor.
Support is key to successful weight loss. That’s what the Nutrisystem weight loss counselors are there for — to get you through challenges, clear up any confusion, and offer encouragement and support to help you succeed with your weight loss.
They’re available by phone Monday to Sunday from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. (EST) at 800-585-5483 or you can chat online with a counselor Monday to Sunday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
6. Weigh yourself once a week.
Do it at the same time, on the same scale, and without any clothes on, to get the most accurate measure of your weight loss diet success. Step on the scale more often and you’ll likely watch those numbers fluctuate.
7. Trust the Nutrisystem program.
It works. It really does. The first week can be tough, as your body adjusts to the meal plan. But if you stick with it, follow the program, eat the foods, make healthy Flex™ meals, track your progress and be more active — you will lose weight and you can keep it off.
Actual Nutrisystem Users’ Feedback
Based on our research and countless customer feedback, this weight loss plan really comes highly recommend by most people who have actually used Nutrisystem to lose weight.
The counseling and dietitian consult are very popular features of the program and many users feel that they were integral in their own success with the program.
The structure and convenience are also popular points with Nutrisystem users.
It also doesn’t hurt that the food tastes great.
… this weight loss plan really comes highly recommend by most people who have actually used Nutrisystem to lose weight.
The food selections like muffins, pizza, and waffles are user favorites. They like not only getting their food delivered to their doorstep, they also like getting great-tasting food that promoted weight loss.
The Eating Out Guide is another user favorite. It helps you make healthy, weight-loss-friendly food choices while eating out. Users can receive it via email or hard copy. Bottom line, Nutrisystem has some very satisfied, happy customers. Over and over again they say that they would recommend it to their friends.
Below is a sampling of Nutrisystem’s frozen food choices for dinner.
Our Final Thoughts On Nutrisystem
While doing our research on Nutrisystem, we stumbled upon Heather W. who was willing to share her experience with Nutrisystem.
Heather had this to say:
Anyone struggling to lose weight should think of trying out Nutrisystem. As a busy mom of three young sons, I liked having all of my meals ready to go at a moment’s notice. Despite being a very finicky eater, I was surprised over how delicious and satisfying I found many of the meals.
For me, the Uniquely Yours option worked best since I liked picking out my meals and I found the frozen meals very tasty. The cost was a tough pill to swallow at first, but the Nutrisystem website typically advertises a promo rate that makes it more affordable.
Plus, as I continued with the plan I actually found I was spending less on food monthly. I attributed the savings to eating less and cutting out my many fast food runs. After remaining on Nutrisystem for five months, I achieved a total weight loss of 30 pounds.
If you want a weight loss system that is safe, nutritious, convenient and helps you stave off hunger, Nutrisystem is a great choice.
It allows you to lose weight safely and establish healthy eating habits. Each plan is designed to help you lose 2 to 3 pounds a week which is what doctors recommend.
Most of all, Nutrisystem works. There are millions of satisfied customers who have been on the system and gotten results – often really good results.
As long as you don’t have any of the conditions or circumstances that are not compatible with Nutrisystem, it is definitely worth trying. Whether you want to lose 10 pounds or 100 pounds, it is completely possible on this plan.
There are millions of satisfied customers who have been on the system and gotten results – often really good results.
Our recommendation is that you should give Nutrisystem a try. At 4 week increments, the commitment is minimal. The food is great, the selection is awesome, and it’s all conveniently delivered right to your door.
Furthermore, you have nothing to lose when trying Nutrisystem besides the weight. Nutrisystem offers full refunds on all of their plans within the first 14 days of ordering if you’re not completely satisfied.
This policy is good on new 4-week plans and first orders only. Here is the phone number just in case: 1-800-727-8046. You can read their money back guarantee here.
With plans starting as low as $9 per day and a wide variety of meals to choose from, you can finally get on an effective, convenient, and delicious program that will bring you back your confidence, and more importantly, your precious health.
We highly recommend that you use the latest Nutrisystem promo code or special offer as these promos provide you with awesome savings. In fact, currently, Nutrisystem has a promo offer of 50% OFF PLUS Free Shipping on every order!
Yes, you definitely read that correctly. With this promo offer, you will get instant savings of 50% on your orders.
And keep in mind … this comes with FREE Shipping on every single order. It really can’t get any better than that!
So go ahead and take advantage of this. 😀
You also will have the option to order your diabetes or vegetarian plans if that’s what you need.
We really recommend that you use the coupons featured above to get significant savings on Nutrisystem. You will get instant discounts with these coupons when you click on them.
The discounts will be applied directly when you check out on the Nutrisystem site. There is no need for you to do any copy and paste at all.
Get Your Nutrisystem SPECIAL OFFER Now!
If you want to lose weight, Nutrisystem can make it happen for you.