Watch CBS News

Weight Watchers Changes Program For First Time In 13 Years

CHICAGO (CBS) - The way millions of people slim down is about to change. On Monday, for the first time in 13 years, Weight Watchers said it's switching up its program. CBS 2's Mary Kay Kleist explains why it will now be easier for dieters everywhere to make better choices.

Cheryl Fernandez weighs in every week, but today is different.

"When I heard about the new PointsPlus program, I could not wait for today to come," she said.

The PointsPlus program goes beyond calorie-counting. The new formula focuses on each of the components that make up calories: protein, carbohydrates, fat and fiber.

Jamie Rakowski is a leader at Weight Watchers.

"Fiber and protein are considered low energy dense foods," Rakowski said. "So your body works a little bit harder to burn those off, keeping you satisfied longer."

It was a full house at Monday's meeting in the Loop.

"This change in our program gives us the weight loss edge that our members have been looking for," Rakowski said.

Here's an example: a buttered croissant versus one poached egg, one slice of whole wheat toast with butter, and three ounces of ham. Both choices are 270 calories.

But the breakfast plate only uses 6 PointsPlus. For the croissant, you will spend 7.

And the group was surprised to hear that they will now have 49 PointsPlus on a weekly basis. It used to be just 35 flex points with the old program.

Also new: "0" PointsPlus values on all fruits and most vegetables.

Cheryl Fernandez says she's ready for a big change.

"I'm embracing a big change and I want it to last," she said.

Even if you're not part of Weight Watchers, dieticians remind us all to steer away from processed foods. Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins into your daily food intake. And don't forget to exercise.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.