The Zoomer Report: Jenny Craig Top Diet

We trust them when it comes to shopping for appliances. Now here’s their advice on choosing a commercial diet program. Consumer Reports crunched the numbers on a number of diet plans and found Jenny Craig beats out five other commercial diets — Atkins, Ornish, Slim Fast, Weight Watchers, and the Zone.

Consumer Reports used what it could find in scientific literature rather than direct research participants. It looked at long and short term weight loss results, dropout rates and the nutritional qualities of the diets.

What gave Jenny the edge? Consumer Reports says it was a study published last year by the Journal of the American Medical Association. That research found that 92 per cent of the participants stuck with Jenny Craig for two years, and by the end of that period, the participants weighed on average of 8 per cent less. It’s important to note that study was funded by Jenny Craig itself.

The company integrates personalized counselling and portion-controlled prepackaged foods. A majority of dieters say that emotional support is critical to successful weight loss.

Consumer Reports cautions this doesn’t mean their top-rated diet will give you the best results. You have to know yourself before choosing a diet. For instance, if you don’t like the idea of eating pre-packaged meals, Jenny Craig might not be for you. Other factors to consider: The level of counselling, how the diet incorporates exercise, and the cost.

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About The Zoomer Report

Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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