On Channel 4's Dispatches programme 'Weight Watchers, How They Make Their Millions' in January of this year, presenter Jane Moore raised questions about the Weight Watchers- how weight loss goes hand in hand with the marketing of their food range, and the effectiveness of its diets. The programme highlighted that:
On top of the weight gain, the high food restriction or stress felt on a diet, means dieters get increased levels of cortisol (the stress hormone that encourages an increase in abdominal fat) and when weight is lost quickly, reduced levels of leptin (a hormone that inhibits appetite) and increased levels of grehlin (a hormone that stimulates appetite). This is an in-built biological function so the body can protect itself from starvation when food is drastically cut. High sugar / carb foods unbalance blood sugar which encourages cravings and hunger, whereas a regulated eating plan that includes sufficient protein and fats will keep hunger at bay and re-balance the abnormal hormone levels
There is a huge amount of evidence that ‘diets’ don't work which is why my healthy eating and weight loss plan involves a variety of modules aimed at re-educating eating, exercise and lifestyle for life. The amount of weight lost is slow and steady, aiming for 5-7 lbs per month. The success of this and the amount of weight lost depends on what long term changes the client is prepared to embrace, not easy in a junk food marketing world focused on temptation.