Dietitian Reviews Weight Watchers (YEP, IT’S STILL REALLY REALLY BAD)

[@OliviaBrookeee]

Noooo! I am 3 months in WW & have lost 25 pounds! It is wonderful! It has helped stopped my binge eating and is a long term way of life. I love the app, it helps me understand what I’m eating! My best friend is a dietitian and she loves it as well!

[@lindseyjohnson1856]

notice how this lady is only replying to the comment agreeing with her lol

[@RemotHuman]

have you been able to maintain it?

[@insidemypinkworld23]

I am a 29 year old woman who is LOVING WW. It’s actually restored my relationship with food. ♥️ I no longer have an unhealthy view of food and feel the need to “not eat” it encourages me to eat, and gives me visual boundaries that I totally understand that not everyone needs. It definitely is a “time is money” program. I have never looked at it line rocket science or something that couldn’t be done without Weight Watchers. Not all of us have the time to calculate everything out. I applaud WW for making it so user friendly and giving us the freedom to look up food and track within our balance. It may not be for everyone, but it’s definitely worth every penny in my opinion.

[@MarrrrMari]

I love your comment!

[@thisisfineeverythingisfine3051]

I agree it works for me

[@vivafamilia7867]

It's the only way I have ever lost weight and felt proud of myself. My MIL lost 40 lbs on it and now does intuitive eating and looks and feels great.

[@melindaroop1346]

I just said out loud to myself that it has helped a lot of people...it just isn't for everyone. I'm not in the program but I do use a lot of their recipes.

[@jessicaanderson6305]

Same! It has really helped me with balancing my eating.

[@mariahn5764]

Shout out to all of us who were given WW subscriptions as “gifts.”

[@sillypengie]

Literally scarred from this exact experience. Hands down the worst, most humiliating and demoralizing birthday. It’s the thought that counts with gifts and that “gift” and thought is best kept under wraps. It even beats getting served the *very distinctly* smallest piece of birthday cake (year after year of course) for dessert by a long shot for shittiest gesture.

[@DELLRS2012]

🤬😦 O…M..G!

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh no 😫

[@rustyfairy9242]

my dad promised me a dog if I got my 20 lb taken thing..I was a young teen.. BLEH

[@guesswho2042]

Wtf?? I'm so sorry that happened to you!!

[@ItsAMeep]

Coming from a weight watchers member, WW really did show me portion sizes and helped me get over my addiction/emotional attachment I had to food. I’d eat without being hungry just because I was upset. I learned that the ‘food coma’ isn’t the goal with food. Food is fuel and you should feel energized, not want to take a nap. My zero point foods I use to compliment my point foods (for example, banana is 0 points and almond milk is 3 points-boom, banana smoothie is only 3 points and is filling for me). It gave me perspective on how I can truly drink my day’s calories in a sonic blast milkshake (34pts) and still on top of that, eating other foods that would make me gain weight. I’ve lost almost 30 pounds on WW and I truly have created a better relationship with food.

[@Andrea-fq1sw]

I would eat 20 bananas a day lol

[@paytonslater7253]

Id love to know how long you’ve been on WW

[@hsm1908]

"Soooooo . . . Yeah. This is just expensive calorie counting." Every. Diet. Ever. Lol

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Yup 😫

[@labornurse]

Except many diets are available for free. WW is fairly expensive. Alot of the people I know who are most attracted to it, can least afford it. Better to spend money on $$$ fruits and veggies.

[@stacys2981]

I think it is worth the expensive calorie counting.

[@brandiehardman-wright4261]

@@stacys2981 ditto. I don’t have time to generate my calorie intake for the day and then read and use math formulas to calculate calories in my food.

[@kjroberts2050]

Could you do a review of slimming World?

[@aliolivi]

WW destroyed my mother's relationship with food when I was growing up. She did the cabbage soup diets and WW. I distinctly remember her making a low fat HIGHLY PROCESSED WW key lime pie over and over again and referring to it as 'healthy.' WW 'made it easy' by publishing points counting books of convenience foods. My mother still struggles with her relationship with food and it makes me so sad. Any diet that promotes a points system is promoting a food currency, and that's scary.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh wow, I’m sorry for your experience. I hope you are doing better now ❤️

[@firefly314]

My MIL did WW for a few years and everything that was low points was so artificial and nasty tasting. Oh and everything is low fat!! Ugh

[@delaniealina2557]

Relate to this. I watched my mom go through the same thing. And in return, I developed a disorder from being around the diet mentality while growing up.

[@michelleandrews2522]

Yes same for my mother. Definitely contributed to my ED. I joined and then worked for Herbal Magic back in the day. It destroyed my metabolism among other things

[@KatieKatCan]

@aliparker - my mom does too! I remember the cabbage soup well.

[@lindsayslifecafe7569]

I’ve lost and maintained a 60lb weight loss in WW. I eat what I want in moderation. Nothing is off limits. I’ve learned a lot about portion sizes, and I eat a lot more lean protein and veggies. If I want pizza, I have it. Ice cream? 3 times per week in summer. Tacos? No problem. Carbs? Yep I have those too. I’m on the blue plan and I love it.

[@virginiawoolf2343]

Agree

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm glad it works for you!

[@angelaw886]

I am on green. Doing well!

[@emmaociee]

I started on Weight Watchers at 14 with my mom. Looking back on it, I'm both angry that grown women at those meetings thought it was normal for a pubescent girl to diet/restrict and also deeply sympathetic for the disfunction that I now know those women were in. And, in case you're wondering, YES: I quickly became obsessive and then struggled with anorexia from age 18-24. It took me YEARS to deprogram my brain from seeing "points" instead of seeing food.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm so sorry for your experience!

[@tired.5565]

I'm so sorry, I had such a huge amount of negative body talk when I was younger it's so toxic..and very unfair.

[@rustyfairy9242]

yup, same. I was 12...my relationship with food was permanently damaged.

[@Jasmine_Aly]

Got put on weight watchers at 10, struggled with binge eating and severe restriction for 20 years. Been in recovery for 6 months.

[@femke6329]

Yeah I’m so confused how many older woman thought that it was normal to push young girls to lose weight. I’m still recovering from my eating disorder and at every family function they still only talk about weightloss. If I ever become a mom I will try my hardest to teach my child to love themself no matter what. Everyone is beautiful.

[@butterpoweredbike6135]

Sure would love to see more videos about turning trigger foods into hunger crushing combos. That one was so fun and inspiring! I've been using the trick of putting cottage cheese in shakes (sorry, the word smoothie skeeves me out!), and would love to see more fun tricks like that using everyday foods, not things like protein powder or expensive ingredients. Love your approach. Thank you for everything you share.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

That sounds great! On my list to make more of these videos 😊

[@butterpoweredbike6135]

@@AbbeysKitchen I have an ED called ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), so the concept of "adding in" foods rather than focusing on further restriction is really positive for where I want to end up. My trigger food is potstickers!

[@Jenahh-aye]

Yess!! I loved that vid😍

[@bea2661]

@@butterpoweredbike6135 potstickers and other similar foods used to be a trigger for me as well ! (ana + purging + ortho) i recently found some with very few ingredients-all of which i’m comfortable with / are safe foods for me-that you just heat up in a pan with water. starting small and simple helps a ton. best of luck, love 🤍🤍

[@beraudmusic]

Wait, but can you even taste the cottage cheese in the shake?

[@paigesglittergloss]

I actually love WW and it helped me lose 35 lbs and fix my relationship with food walking away from a vegan diet where I was super restricted and messed up. It seems like everyone just hates on diets, but some of us literally need a program to help lose weight for health reasons. Intuitive eating just doesn’t work for everyone when your relationship with food is a mess and I don’t think we need to demonize everything - WW actually does teach you to build a balanced plate in my opinion. Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, legumes, fruits & veg and the program really isn’t restrictive.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm glad it works for you!

[@moregardening5014]

Intuitive Eating is literally about healing your relationship with food. For someone like me with a binge eating disorder, the restrictions in any diet just lead to binges and weight gain.

[@moregardening5014]

Also on WW whole grains are generally more points. I remember whole wheat bread was more than white for example. Brown rice was more as well. It doesn’t recommend any amount of fruit or veg, they’re just free. I know a lot of people on it who were eating no vegetables

[@yourbffnat3602]

@@moregardening5014 I remember doing intuitive eating, my body literally never craved or felt like it needed vegetables. It felt like it needed chocolate and pizza. I gained 15 pounds in 3 weeks. And yes I ate when hungry, stopped when full. I need guidelines. Not "rules" but guidelines for being healthier

[@ThisIsKassia]

Please don't confuse a plant based diet that happened to be disordered for you, with a vegan lifestyle (which includes all sorts of ways to reduce animal suffering, like not eating animals, not wearing leather or wool or fur, buying cruelty-free makeup, etc)

[@melaniejohns7562]

It saddens me to hear WW get ripped apart, my grandmother lost 62 lbs on WW and my mom lost 71lbs and they kept it off 5+ years. It worked great for them & I am grateful.

[@family-peace-love]

Yeah I was just saying that some of us need a plan and it's obviously got a place with so much food addiction about

[@thesitterofpawz1710]

I agree Melanie! I am doing so much better with WW I love it. It is really easy to track the food and I get a lot out of the community. Down 28 pounds and I am not quitting...I don't care how much it cost...I am sure a 1 on 1 session with a dietician isn't cheap either. I have gone to weight loss doctors and have paid $50 a week so WW is a lot cheaper than a lot of other plans and definitely cheaper than the Multi-Level Marketing "diets" out there. I love WW and don't mind paying for it because it is WORKING!

[@Thejennmachine]

Honestly it’s worked for me too, I used to be prediabetic. WW in my experience gave me a sustainable way to lose weight without the mental anguish I experienced from calorie counting on apps like my fitness pal and life sum. Nothing about WW makes me feel shame about my food choices and they support plenty of fruits and veggies.

[@blessedtress]

No worries! Take this video with a grain of salt. As a dietician, I feel she’s a bit biased. Why hire a dietitian if you can be successful like your mom and grandmother on WW. Chin up buttercup! 😉

[@Thejennmachine]

@@blessedtress that’s exactly what I did. And you’re totally right. I still love watching Abbeys videos.

[@flamencoaddict]

Why is there a background music now? It's really distracting!

[@jpfly66]

Agree! I prefer without.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Sorry about that, thank you for letting me know!

[@annawitter5161]

Me too.

[@515aleon]

Agreed--hard to do background music right in videos. Don't know many people who can do it.

[@marilynmonraex]

Yeah I found this >

[@deactivated-78936]

My mom lost 100 pounds on Weight Watchers many years ago. She loved that the in-person meetings and sense of community helped her keep herself accountable. It really is just expensive calorie counting, though. 😅

[@AbbeysKitchen]

For sure. I'm glad that works for her

[@thatbee3585]

True . I tried to do MyFitnessPal.

[@amybrown6540]

I did Weight Watchers 20 years ago. I loved the meetings. I liked the structure of the weekly weigh in and the community feeling. I am forever grateful for WW bc my weight yo-yo’d my entire adult life, and I’ve been thin ever since WW. My criticism of how WW was then (I’m sure it’s changed 🤞) is that I learned absolutely nothing about nutrition, and processed foods & recipes full of horrible things (cool whip) were pushed. I also learned how to juggle my points so that I could still go for pizza & a beer. I eat WFPB now, so WW would never work for me.

[@Cloudancer2024]

@@amybrown6540 What's WFPB?

[@MentalHealth_UP]

I guess whole foods plant based

[@lucyloo35]

It’s helped so many men and women. Regardless of it being a calorie counter it works. I wouldn’t knock anything that helps someone feel better about themselves.

[@gperrey9223]

I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on Slimming World which is super popular here in the UK! Unless you have already? I am uncertain where else it is in the world, but it’s the main ‘ programme ‘ here and about every other person I know is in it 😂😂

[@kellymaddick]

Same, would love to see Abbey review slimming world

[@becksmurphy8311]

It's a massive thing in Ireland aswell (probably more popular than weight watchers are this point)

[@roisinmccullough7792]

I would love to see this also! I still have all my materials and books I can send via email to you if you want to look at it to review without paying.

[@shannyngiles5270]

I did WW for a couple of months this year on the blue plan and I thought I would starve. I knew it was time to quit when I stood in the grocery store aisle and almost cried at the sight of the peanut butter I couldn’t have because it was too “high” in points. 🤣

[@AbbeysKitchen]

On my list to review this!

[@endybendy5699]

"It's harder to eat six chicken breasts than six cookies." Challenge accepted.

[@KentuckyLiz]

Ugh, the idea of eating six chicken breasts in one sitting is utterly sickening

[@MsPeabody1231]

@@KentuckyLiz That's the point 😀

[@jessicadigue121]

WW has helped me tremendously regardless of if it is an expensive calorie counter or not, it's taught me portion control, being aware of how much sugar I take in and just making better choices in general. What works for one may not work for another. 🤷‍♀️

[@lindseyjohnson1856]

me too!

[@rolldecode]

Hi Abbey, I just wanted to check in and let you know that intuitive eating has been going really well for me. I am happy, satisfied, and healthier than I was before I started this journey. My parents both passed down their disordered eating to me (cycles of restriction then binging to an extreme extent), and seeing them struggle with weight loss now while I am getting healthier slowly but very sustainably hurts. (This includes weight loss because i am in a unhealthy condition but this is not by any means my primary goal on its own.) And i've literally just added more protein (hunger crushing combo) and not restricted myself to the point i binge constantly. I honestly do not know what would've happened to me had I not found you - i've even applied the broad kind of moderation and mindfulness mindset in intuitive eating to my life as a whole, and that has really helped me not just with food but with things like work and building good habits as well. From the bottom of my heart (and hopefully soon my parents' hearts too), thank you.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm so glad IE has been working for you! Thank you so much for sharing, wishing you the best of luck on the rest of your journey ❤️

[@kristengilliam-coomber8457]

That's amazing, you go girl!!!!

[@annabees]

I relate to this so much!! IE is not always easy, and sometimes brings tons of doubts when the amount we need hits, but it's so worth it. I hope you get to a more comfortable weight "soon" to be able to enjoy full no stress IE :) Personal question: Do you think you can show by example to your family that there is a better path than the one they are on? I'm trying to with my mom, but since I don't live with her I only have small opportunities to share this with her...

[@samirairfan650]

Wow! That's so amazing, you deserve to be proud of yourself for your own growth!

[@rolldecode]

@@AbbeysKitchen Thank you so much, Abbey! I really appreciate your well wishes and I'll be staying tuned!

[@vballgirl745]

I’ve been on weight watchers for a year now as of last week and I still love it to this day. Sorry not sorry.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm glad it works for you!

[@helenrushworth7743]

I love weight watchers, move on if you dont no one forcing you to use their method.

[@helloanny88]

WW helped me to lose 55lbs. I like it because you don’t have to count everything (zero point foods) and you can eat what you want. I was never hungry on it and it has been sustainable. Intuitive eating doesn’t work for everyone.

[@taycharlese]

Exactly. She clearly comes from a perspective of someone that never had an issue with overeating. Telling someone that consistently eats until they’re uncomfy and has little to no knowledge in nutrition to just “eat intuitively” is just counterproductive. It is not that simple.

[@paytonslater7253]

Id really like to know how long you were on WW

[@helloanny88]

@@paytonslater7253 I’m now at goal with 65 lost total. I have PCOS and lose slowly (.5-1lb per week) so it took me two years. Been in maintenance for almost a year at this point.

[@wht.alysha]

I have done WW in the past and had success with it. There were many people in my meetings that were Lifetime Members, which you didn’t touch on. Once you reach your goal weight with WW, you maintain within 2 lbs of that weight for 6 weeks. Then you become a Lifetime Member and have free access to all the meetings, app, features, events, etc for life, as long as you stay within 2 lbs of your goal weight. So you really aren’t stuck paying for it for the rest of your life if it is a plan that works for you.

[@sh4577]

Isn’t it when you reach a BMI that’s considered “healthy” not just when you reach your own goal that you choose?

[@wht.alysha]

@@sh4577 You are encouraged to choose a goal weight within your BMI. However, you can get a doctors note for a weight outside that range and still receive lifetime status.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thank you for the information! I'm glad it works for you

[@notoestoseehere]

This is a hill I’ll die on. I 100% understand that not all diets/programs/methods work for everyone. But WW saved my sanity and really helped me get into healthy habits. No food is off limits, no “rules” on how to use your smart points. No shaming. Big community online and in person for meetings. If you hit goal weight and maintain, WW is free for life.

[@leniliddy]

i agree! i think she is being a bit unfair here

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm glad that it works for you!

[@Ayyeliki]

I hear you, we’re all so different and motivated in diff ways, there’s just no one solution that universally works! A friend of mine swears by Noom (and I have no interest in a 1200 cal “diet “), WW works for lotsa people and I merely use MyNetDiary as a food journal so that I don’t absent,underlay eat 2 cups of nuts a day, lol. Whatever works!

[@Deecams]

I had a great experience with WW green plan. I lost 15 pounds of baby weight. What it did for me that I think helped work, I had skin in the game with monthly subscription. Two, as opposed to calorie counting in the past, I was incentivized to eat fruit and vegetables.. in the past I was tempted to not waste points on things I didn’t like as much as processed food. I have to kindly disagree with the negative title on this video.

[@tlmorris]

I was also successful with WW. It’s not for everyone. However, I was a bit disappointed with the labeling of green or Purple folks. That’s the first time I’ve felt labeled. Plus when you get to your goal you don’t pay anymore unless that has changed.

[@Deecams]

@@tlmorris I wasn’t sure if you had to pay after you met your goal, I just canceled because I’m pregnant. I tried not to think about the colors more than strategies, I wanted green because I felt like it would encourage me to eat more fruit and veggies, that’s all.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm glad that it works for you! Thanks for sharing

[@pamelagoode7499]

I so agree with you!

[@tlmorris]

@@AbbeysKitchen it did it was hard for me to not be bias because I’m in the green program. I do agree that they need to consider types of sugar and types of fat because that’s frustrating. Example I can use delicious and satisfying full fat organic half & half 2 points per tablespoon, but if I use coffee mate sugar free it’s 0. That’s flawed.

[@emmonstrex65]

I'm on WW and am doing great. Yeah, it's all counting calories, made easier with an App. The plan just changed again, which is good, because food science continues to evolve. My doctor supports my diet, and she's an actual doctor. Unfortunately, my body type + age, I must track and understand the kind and amount of food I eat, if I want to lose weight. This one works for me.

[@sharonparkinson8769]

Good for you cat lady freak!!!

[@shannon8634]

I agree with you I’ve done quite well on it and it’s better than diet pills, plastic surgery and it’s what works for you and I find it does for me, My doctor recommends it as well.

[@DivineLightFitness]

Same!

[@joannapatterson4625]

WW has never made sense to me, especially now with all the free online resources available. Totally. Expensive weird method of calorie counting.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Yup 😫

[@tiffprendergast]

Yup

[@mygirldarby]

I think people who join WW get a sense of belonging. They also "reward" you with little tokens in the mail when you lose a certain amount of weight. The deeper issue here is that most people know how to eat a healthy diet. It isn't rocket science, but it's boring common sense. If a company like WW can make dieting seem like a fun (ish) way to diet, then yay. People on WW inevitably start trying to trick the system by eating large amounts of low or no point foods, etc. It seems that all diets have that weirdness built into it. On a low fat diet, you can eat sugar all day long because sugar has no fat...and on low carb you can eat bacon, lard, cheese all day long because tthere's no carbs. Everyone knows eating sugar all day or bacon and cheese all day is unhealthy, but it's "allowed" because of the loophole in these fad diets. All this is a distraction and keeps their minds off of eating a boring healthy diet and onto losing weight using loopholes and cheating the system.

[@Sarah8561]

I love WW! It’s been life changing. It’s not just calorie counting, it gets you into patterns and you really learn the whole “eat this instead of that” thing. Before WW I had no idea that so many of my calories were coming from drinks and sauces 😂 The app is so easy to use and it comes with workouts, meditations, live streams, chat.. it’s a whole vibe and everyone I know that’s done it has lot weight painlessly!

[@virgo_things]

Me remembering suppressed memories of WW meetings starting from the age of 8 🙃. I literally wasn't even fat then, but my mom had me on multiple diets by the age of 11. Now I struggle so much with binge and disordered eating patterns.

[@outoftheklosset]

I'm so sorry you went through that. Hopefully you can find a therapist to talk about your experience growing up and maybe that could help? **sending support and love**

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh wow, I’m so sorry for your experience. I hope you are doing alright ❤️

[@tabithawestbrook9683]

Same, I was in WW by 12 and developed a wicked eating disorder. Been in recovery a long while now, but WW nearly destroyed me. It's straight up evil.

[@virgo_things]

@@AbbeysKitchen rewiring my thought process has been the most difficult part but I'm taking it day by day and am doing alright for the most part ❤

[@virgo_things]

@@outoftheklosset I've been talking to a nutritionist but even she recommended I see a therapist so I'm in the process of getting that under way ❤

[@lindsaymansur6462]

people's favorite "evidence" is the anecdotal "proof" that it worked for them, or someone they know...completely ignoring the plethora of evidence that something is *overall* problematic.

[@brandyjoklein6797]

Did you catch the actual research at the 11ish min mark? Not just anectodal.

[@taylorfranks1113]

I personally love WW. I love how easy it is to plug in points, which naturally trains me to be more mindful with portions. I’ve lost 8 pounds so far, and I’m someone that struggles to lose weight. I’ve tried everything from intermittent fasting, OMAD, Mediterranean diet, keto you name it. Not everyone has the time or the energy to track macros, or count every single calorie. Like good on you for being a dietitian, but don’t knock people that genuinely love this program.

[@Meow-Meow501]

It worked for me. You didn’t mention however that when you reach your goal weight that the program is then free to you as long as you weigh in once a month at the studio. I’ve been below goal weight for 12 months and don’t pay anymore. Iknow not any diet works for everyone, this one however has helped me lose 74# and kept it off thus far.

[@pamelagoode7499]

Me too. I am lifetime and have been for 5 years. I have perfect bloodwork and I am 64 years old so I wouldn't call that unhealthy. A person can make anything unhealthy if they want to. I lost 54 pounds.

[@sososohaunted]

@@pamelagoode7499 'A person can make anything unhealthy if they want to.' While there can be success stories with WW, painting the image of the good diet person versus the bad diet person is unhealthy and dangerous. Especially if you have read the other comments where people have developed eating disorders from following WW's plans.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I wasn't aware of that, thank you for mentioning this point. I'm glad it works for you!

[@beraudmusic]

That’s probably cool for people who want to actually lose weight. Not so great for people who wanna do body recomposition. I’ve always been mad I couldn’t do that healthy wage thing because I don’t have 20 lbs to lose. It’s more like 6 lbs of fat to lose and 6 lbs of muscle. Which tbh, it is a lot harder to do when your starting weight is already on the normal to low end

[@ER-ge9hr]

This explanation of WW and the different plans really highlights how misguided ALR is with her attempts and how little she understands the program in general

[@ThisIsKassia]

Who is ALR?

[@ZeldaReed]

Sorry who is ALR? If you are talking about Abby I am with you.... (I am new here)

[@ashleyvick4411]

I have a degree in nutrition and I do genuinely believe that WW *could* help someone who doesn't know a lot about nutrition learn more about it on the WW program, by doing. At the same time, I also watched my mom and grandmother yoyo on their program all through my childhood so I don't know if I could ever give them by business. I actually got my degree in nutrition so I could break the cycle for my children, and help them feel empowered to not be trapped by food.

[@shanaphilhower3516]

I love WW it works for me, intuitive eating did not work. At least for me, also once you reach a weight that your dr signs off on you get free access to every service they offer.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Whatever works best for you!

[@sososohaunted]

Tw disordered eating, I went on Weight Watchers 13 years ago. My family convinced me it was my last chance to be thin and equated my size with being lonely forever (so messed up). I dropped an excessive amount of weight in a short time on their plan and developed an eating disorder. Everyone around me praised my new found thinness, but no one ever realized how little WW was telling me was a healthy amount of calories for me to eat. All these years later and I'm still struggling with my eating disorder (ednos aka osfed) and having healthy food habits. Their program messed with my head so bad.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm so sorry for your experience. I hope that my videos are helpful for you at all and that you're doing alright now ❤️

[@sososohaunted]

@@AbbeysKitchen Your videos have been incredibly helpful, especially this one. Finally, the veil is being lifted on WW. I'm working with a nutritionist now who specializes in eating disorders and that's been very helpful.

[@cmr728]

Omg yes… this sort of! I thought I was going crazy a few days ago! The first time I joined, we lied and told them I was two inches shorter …. The second time, it was on my terms. I was put on green…. And ran into huge problems trying to accumulate the 30, because I figured out the “game” and started just eating off the purple list . I turned it off, but unfortunately the anxiety is VERY real… counting points, calories, or not

[@cierracrary4134]

I have used weight watchers recently and it helped me lose 20 pounds and start living a much healthier lifestyle. I’d recommend it to anyone hoping to start a healthier path.

[@lauralei6963]

Is it affordable?

[@anitat277]

I was in weight watchers. The positives-learned to read labels, also learned about portion control: the sense of community. The negative: expense-I did maintain the weight loss for more than two years but could not maintain in the long run. It did not address the deep seated beliefs that contribute to my messed up relationship with food.

[@carolinex2390]

Abbey, thank you so much for handling this one so gracefully and sensitively. My mom has been dieting since she was a teenager, and definitely loses control when she eats. She keeps going on and off weight watchers and I'm so happy she was willing to watch this video with me. I just wanted to start the conversation with her and this was perfect

[@MBonacchs]

Abbey- “people could eat loads of vegetables and chicken all week long and then drink a ton of beer and eat a lot of pizza on the weekend” Me- *sweating, wondering if Abbey has a camera in my house* 😂😂

[@GGGirl55]

So disordered.

[@Atheria444]

My friend has had success with WW but she hoards points to spend on wine. ;-) Then again, my guy friend makes protein shakes in the morning with vodka! LOL

[@jeanievan4037]

Full disclosure: I watch your videos, because I like to challenge myself to think differently. I don’t think intuitive eating works for everyone, I think the standard American diet makes it nearly impossible to eat intuitively, I think being overweight is just as toxic and taxing to the human body as it is for a pets body-one just has emotion tied to it, so that’s where I’m coming from. BUT you’re so smart and knowledgeable and you’re an expert and I’m not. I feel challenged and learn a lot in every video, so thank you. However this video felt one sided to the point of losing objectivity? First, your assessment of who gets the green, blue or purple plan was incorrect. And idk why you didn’t take it a step further? If you didn’t wanna pay for it that’s fine, but you could’ve called someone. Because green gives you more free points it’s actually designed for people who need more flexibility aka eating out etc. it’s not just for less experienced people. I started on green and moved to blue, because my body was simply needing more protein and I cook almost every meal-sometime many people can’t do. I made the switch in two seconds on the app. You can switch anytime. What’s amazing, is this midwestern girl went from a diet pretty dominated with pork and beef to now eating way more fish and chicken. I still eat red meat, but way less. WW challenged me in that positive way. You also only gave one negative example (the hot dog and peanut butter) example versus all the positive examples. The system really does prioritize protein, and you can see it in the calculator. Also, a hot dog without a bun is going to be more difficult to binge than PB which really truly can be easily binged. It’s filled with sugar most of the time, can be easily spread or spooned. Etc. on the other hand, you can have 27 almonds for 5 points. Lol. That’s a shit ton of almonds. idk why you chose just one nut example. I can only think you were pulling examples to prove your point? And I find it odd that you didn’t talk about the community aspect of WW, which always has and continues to be, one of the key factors of success and also what sets it apart from many other diets. And as other commenters have added, the lifetime membership aspect. You didn’t touch on any other features: like how they reward sleep, water, mindfulness and activity but don’t tie it to your eating so it’s not a trade-that’s revolutionary for a lot of people. And…what’s wrong with gamification? You didn’t explain that at all. Gamification works with humans. I find it to be really fun. Thanks for your videos! You do great work, even if we do disagree.

[@melindagibson8606]

I loved your point of view🥰 Thanks for sharing also!!

[@lmf3512]

I also wondered why she didn't go past the paywall. It's her job and a cost of doing business. Also there are often free trials. Not fair to review without that. Not everyone can just intuitively eat. Some need guidance

[@Dollsanity]

This definitely feels one sided. I support her right to have this negative opinion, but I'm losing consistently on ww and I am enjoying my meals. I feel free and calm with my eating and I'm in no rush to get to goal. So happy ww was an option for me.

[@angelaw886]

I love WW myself. I have to eat low-carb because of diabetes, and WW has helped me to keep track of everything. I get plenty of points. 30 pounds down so far using WW and low carb. I eat plenty also.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Glad it works for you!

[@starlight8554]

//TW for disordered eating// When I was 17 one of my friends was really into weight watchers. I ate like a normal 17 year old (a lot of trash ngl, my metabolism was magical) and she used to make remarks about how many points each item that I put into my mouth was worth. She’s still yo-yo dieting to this day; she’s quite thin around the summer months because of some very heavy restriction (at the time we were close it was a banana, 2 rice cakes and black coffee every day plus an hour of intense exercise daily) and heavier whenever she ‘falls off the wagon’. The whole mindset is toxic and I can’t believe so many women I know have fallen prey to their vulture-like ways.

[@joannapatterson4625]

Agreed!

[@floridaowl7303]

That is so so sad. I agree with you about how toxic it is.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh wow, that is very upsetting to hear 🙁

[@kellyreinhold7295]

I’ve been in WW 2.5 weeks and I’ve lost 17 pounds. I used to suck Mountain Dew and eat candy and cookies daily. So that is pretty much self explanatory and I have to say the amount of success stories on this diet is staggering. It has really opened my eyes to portion size and just how awful I really was eating. I was really surprised to find this video. I’ve had nothing but good results so far and I haven’t had to restrict myself too much. I don’t get why she thinks there’s so much negativity. Everyone will find something negative with everything in life though. It can’t be avoided.

[@fung6418]

Dang what? Which plan? I have a lot to lose but we're not able to lose alot when I should. We're u on green plan?

[@sharonreinblatt9790]

While I agree with some of your points on WW, I for one have lost 70 pounds on WW while in my 50s. All the staff at the WW meetings are former members who have successfully lost and kept off their weight. They can relate to what I was going thru and struggling with. The point system is not hard to learn. Since beginning my weight loss journal, I have found that I eat a much more balanced diet that is full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The most legitimate point you make is about the healthy fats. I have gotten around that by not counting when I use oil in my cooking or a moderate amount of butter. I personally use defatted peanut butter powder vs regular peanut butter because that personally is a binge able food for me. It’s best not to have it my home. Oh, once you reach goal, you no longer pay for WW and are considered a lifetime member.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thank you for sharing your experience with this program. Glad it works for you

[@annawitter5161]

I grew up on WW in the 70's. Weighing my food was a pain! It was about being on a DIET that made me feel fat and unacceptable. Thanks so much for the "naked carbs" tip. I love my carbs! And having them combined with protein really works for me. Even just sprinkling some nuts pips and seeds on my salad. It helps stabilise my blood glucose. Please keep giving out this tip, people need to hear it.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

So glad that suggestion was helpful for you!

[@AmirahJoy]

With due respect, WW today is completely different than it was in the 70s. As in there is no comparison. They are continually looking at the latest research and incorporating it into their plan. It changes roughly every two years. It really was a diet in the 70s and it is more of a lifestyle now.

[@AmirahJoy]

Regarding the cost of WW, they run specials all the time, and some insurance companies will cover it. You also neglected to mention the fact that once you reach your weight goal and stay within 3 lbs of that goal, you then have Lifetime membership and no longer pay for the program. So you do have support after reaching your goal, and the encouragement to stay at or very near your goal. Please do all your research; not just the part that supports your opinion.

[@republicanrule]

I think the newer version of WW is improved & gives each member choices as to what they mostly want to eat. You can definitely keep it on the low end of processed foods if you want, and the program offers a lot of help in the way of exercising and psychology. Any diet can be picked apart including keto or a whole foods diet. It’s what works for you. I know this - it’s better to lose weight and lower BMI (with what works for you) than it is to stay fat. As far as having started WW young and developed eating disorders, it’s helpful to stop focusing on it and to move past the past. I say this as someone who also had this experience. The sooner we can walk through it and past it, by forgiving and letting go, the sooner we become free from the negative effects of it.

[@brandywillis3998]

Look WW is a tool like any other. It really works for some people who need more structure to a diet and for whom intuitive eating doesn't work and calorie counting is too complicated or takes too much time. For others it does not work. Support can also dramatically help a weight loss journey for some people and WW has that option built in. It is NOT inherently unhealthy.

[@katiewingler6512]

They actually just changed their plan again a few months after you posted this to the "Personal Point" system. I would love to hear your take on that as I am currently on it! Thanks for the awesome content as usual!

[@elinemadeleine]

I personally love it.

[@Kzvuyp]

I also like WW for years have learned a lot about food and nutrition. Yes expensive but cheaper than insulin. It just depends what you value, have had moments when I quit the app and what I learned help me not to go back to my previous weight

[@ryanjacobson2326]

It’s very flexible and supports an anti-inflammatory diet which can be beneficial for many people. It’s probably better to get that advice from someone who actually experienced the program and didn’t stop at the paywall before posting a half hour rant to gain exposure online. There are some very experienced users of the WW plan on KZbin. One that I remember seeing from a very smart woman who lost over 110 lbs on WW … I think her page is Jens WW Journey. That would give a more insightful approach from someone putting the new WW plan to practice.

[@klu222]

I lost 75 lbs with weight watchers, and kept it off for 4 years. When I was pregnant in 2020 I just let it all go, and stop restricting in every way. I gained more than 75 lbs through my pregnancy, and it sucked. I had such a bad relationship with good foods and bad foods. I couldn't live off the WW plan. Fast forward two years and im feeling good about food again. I am -30 lbs from the height of my pregnancy and I have a good handle on the path to my goal. I feel a lot more comfortable with food and counting regular calories in vs calories out.

[@erinmeadows14]

My parents have an on and off again relationship with WW and all they ever come away with is “oh yeah. I really need to eat more fruit and veggies.” Which my response is always “why do you need WW to keep telling you that.” They finally have dropped it and just kept up high veg and fruit content, lean proteins and almost eliminating red meat entirely.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

That's great!

[@ggjr61]

A couple of years later WW as usual has moved on. They no longer have these plans which is part of their many problems. For example if you did well on purple it’s gone now. The reason their study went two years is because they change change their plan every two years.

[@ayanomar1408]

Abby I really want to thank you for changing the way I see food! my biggest change is that I feed my children without stress or pressure anymore. I look forward to every new video.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm so glad my videos have been helpful for you!

[@donnadamsgaard8145]

I really appreciate your review on WW, I found it to be accurate and fair. I am a previous WW member and coach for 6 years until Covid 19 hit and WW let go of many employees, like myself. I was very successful initially with WW, losing 35 pounds and maintaining most of my weight loss for 5 years until Covid 19 and lockdowns. Allow me to give you my personal highs and lows of the diet. I want to stress that WW is a diet! For me, the upside of joining WW in the beginning was it taught me how to eat healthier. I had not been successful in losing weight and had developed some poor eating habits. WW helped me to learn how to make healthier choices and habits. The downside is, for years I couldn’t eat a meal or a snack without knowing the smart points and tracking. I didn’t look at food, I looked at points! As you said in your video, I fell into restricting my food through the week and then going over my points on the weekend. This lead to feeling guilt, shame, and frustration with not being able to stay at goal (which is a big deal when you are a WW coach). By the way WW coaches have no formal training in nutrition. You get a weekend seminar that basically trains you with WW policies and learning the program. Even though I learned a lot about healthy habits and nutrition with WW, my overall experience with WW did harm to my relationship with food. I am still struggling with my weight, and the weight mindset. I will admit, I want to lose weight because I don’t feel comfortable in my body. I am scared to go back to WW, or dieting because of the diet mindset that one gets trapped in. I am also scared not to do something about my weight because I am not physically comfortable, my knees and joints hurt, and it’s harder for me to do the physical activities I enjoy. For the last three months I have implemented intuitive eating principles, and I have gained more weight, so I am concerned with that. For now, I will continue to enjoy the hungry crushing combination (protein, fibre, & healthy fats) at every meal and snack and continue to strive for a healthier relationship with food. Thank you Abbey for sharing your sound knowledge, it is helpful.

[@katerinaklutz3239]

Thanks for being so honest!!

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thank you for sharing your experience! I'm glad you find the hunger crushing combo helpful!

[@azizanorova8687]

I remember in the fifth grade, there was a girl who would talk about her eating plan from weight watchers and I remember thinking that it seems weird for a kid to be “watching their weight”.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh wow 🙁

[@Hannah-um7fr]

I’m meeting with an RD and physician tonight, and I’m so excited. I’ve used WW in the past and experienced the struggles mentioned in this video.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Good luck! ❤️

[@laura_elizabeth]

WW probably isn’t for everyone, but I’ve been on the WW blue plan for the past 9 months and I actually love it. I’ve lost 75lbs since starting and it’s helped me be accountable and I love the community element. I do agree with some of your points though as I learned early on I could cheat the system by over consuming zero point food, but I was able to learn from that reflect on why I was doing that and adjust. One point of clarification, in terms of “roll over” points while in theory someone could hoard them all for a “binge” on the weekend there are still daily point ranges which you are advised to stay within so that you aren’t under or over eating your points. For me I need to stay within 16-37 daily points even though my target is 29 points.

[@shalandramixon646]

I’m thinking about doing this, do they offer good food choices?

[@lynnprice2314]

I have had a lot of success on the blue plan as well. It's a little work to get into but once you're on a roll, it becomes second nature.

[@shalandramixon646]

@MissHollyBerries Thanks..

[@shalandramixon646]

@MissHollyBerries I did it I joined 😬😬

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I’m glad that works for you. Thank you for sharing!

[@julieneve2791]

Why would anyone hire a dietitian, it seems to me that eating healthy is something that is pretty common sense, although I am from a older generation, I am 64, when I was growing up I never ever heard about dietitians. But Fruits, Vegetables, and Lean Meats were often talked about. Although I did see a few people that were obese when I was growing up, my younger brother was quite heavy, in school very few people were overweight. It seems like the last 20-30 years people have just blown up. Also they changed the clothing sizes from when I was in high school, I weigh the same as I did in high school, I am 5'6" tall, and weigh 125 I wear a size 8, when I was in high school that was a size 14, now a 14 is huge

[@roxmae9752]

hiii!!! can you review claudia selewski’s what I eat in a day video? it’s not advertised to be health specific or anything but I think she eats in a really fun way and looks like she would be a good model of loving food while being moderate!

[@AbbeysKitchen]

On my list!

[@debbieg.177]

Back in the 60s and 70's they used to have these bizarre ingredient combos to approximate 'real' food like canned bean sprouts for pasta and frozen balls of non-fat dry milk and chocolate extract for 'candy'. Now, if you don't want to spend hours obsessing over food, which is an obvious outcome of 'dieting' you can get hooked on branded frozen food.

[@jules9185]

9.30 pm here in the UK, bedtime watching…..yay. Love your videos Abbey. X

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thanks! ❤️

[@tiffprendergast]

@@AbbeysKitchen same

[@Kaatje04IJ]

I used Weightwatchers to go from 176lbs to 121lbs about 5/6 years ago. And I use it every now and again for a few months just to get my ass back into gear, because I do have a slight food addiction, especially when I'm not feeling great. Which makes me gain weight, which makes me feel even more shitty etc. Etc. WW helps me to get back into making better choices. Is it expensive? Well... In europe I would say It is WAY less expensive then going to a diet coach. The option to do the diet without the coach (so just the online plan) works amazing for me. Do I wish I didn't need a "diet" ofcourse! Nobody diets for fun.

[@avapomeroy3360]

Great video Abbey! Would love to watch a video about your thoughts on Jillian Michaels. Not just the traditional calories in calories out belief system that she goes by but also what she eats in a day and her overall thoughts on diet and weight loss.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

On my list to review!

[@SarahSmile25]

@@AbbeysKitchen she actually has a video where she makes fun of intuitive eating. Make sure to watch that one

[@messychurchholyfamily2758]

I don't know how you can review the program without joining and giving it a try. That's like reviewing a restaurant you've never tried. I'm a 21 year member of WW, paying zero because I'm at lifetime.

[@clairedillon6168]

My mom did weight watchers when we were younger, saw amazing results, stopped, and gained it all back. Around 5 years ago, she decided to start again, lost the weight again, and has decided to remain a member not for weight loss but maintenance. Honestly, I support that she has found something that works for her, but her relationship with food is still concerning to me. I’ve tried to talk with her about it but I’ve decided it’s a moot point. She doesn’t feel she needs to change her relationship with food because she knows WW works for her and that’s enough for her personal happiness.

[@jilldonovan6089]

I did WW for a little over a year and while I eventually had to stop just due to food allergies making it difficult to stay in points, I do appreciate the balance it taught me to have. A year later I'm still conscious about eating healthier balanced meals and dont feel guilty over eating a cookie or ice cream because everything is eaten in moderation.

[@sbenefield76]

I've been loving WW and definitely am learning and thinking about the things I can do when I'm no longer "on ww."

[@Kaboomboo]

I never did weight watchers, but I did calorie counting and exercise before I got married. And I stuck to it. I didn't eat bad food, but accounted for all of the calories and restricted it to a certain amount. I didn't worry too much about rollover because that doesn't make much sense. I did have a cheat meal (emphasis on MEAL, not DAY), where once day of the week I could eat whatever I wanted, and that was it. After that, it's back on the counting. I wound up losing a lot of weight that way and I wasn't starving myself. I'm doing it again now, after I've had my son. Third day in. I've also cut out all alcohol. I didn't realize just how many empty calories that stuff has.

[@Hannahtheredhead2454]

Love the video, as always, and your wisdom and guidance. Didn’t love the background music.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Sorry about that, thanks for the feedback!

[@thatsalt1560]

I think it's cool. I like it.

[@Hannahtheredhead2454]

I’m so sorry. My comment was abrupt and perhaps rude. I found the music distracting from Abbey’s content-I have trouble focusing when there is background music. I regret my criticism. I love this channel and this community and have learned so much.

[@sarahinsf]

@@Hannahtheredhead2454 I think your comment was perfectly polite (and I agree with you) 🙂

[@BorisK296]

I'm really feeling Abbey's printer esthetic in the background. Blink away girl, blink away.

[@jessleite94]

I never understand when people talk about intuitive eating. Clearly I can't eat Intutively if Im overweight.

[@toniweis4627]

Well, I finally watched this. WW taught my Mother that dieting was silly and that you needed to find a lifestyle that worked for you. It taught me to look at my food in terms of taste and texture and how to cope with breastfeeding and pregnancy. I am currently using it for 2022. Will get back to you.

[@jujubeesmama]

Did you continue the program?

[@patperrier4599]

When I was on WW (a couple of times), I found a problem (and it's me, like you said -- all of us are different).... When I exercised, I got "fitness points," and those were added to my budget. In my brain, I said, "Oh, I exercised, so I can eat." And when I lost weight, I thougth "Oh, I lost weight this week so I can eat." You see the pattern. It wasn't hard to eat my points: in Twinkies if I wanted to one day (or more days...). I think the program has good intentions, and it has evolved and kept up with nutrition science - it's just not for everyone. I found long-term friends (all of whom are no longer on WW), but I also encountered bullies.

[@pkfamily7297]

I love your videos. I lost 40 lbs on WW, and have maintained the loss for 3 months thus far. Because of my history, WW provided the guidance I needed to mindfully and healthfully achieve my weight loss goals.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Glad that works for you!

[@Pearlygirl0]

I know WW isn’t specifically for women, but it always felt like “women aren’t smart enough to calorie count, so we made it into points to make it easier for their small brains” 😬 and I’m not here for it

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Wow, thank you for mentioning this 😫

[@actual______criminal]

YES! Yes. Yes. Yes.

[@lj4644]

Well, yes, and the commercials treat us like we are babies

[@Jenahh-aye]

This is on point!

[@thewugglyump8045]

Thank you for saying this. The point system always rubbed me the wrong way and I wasn't able to put my finger on why until now. That's exactly what's bothered me about it.

[@leopardshadow333]

Personally i would love to see more content about the scarcity mentality with food, and the different ways that can change attitudes towards food and eating. I just feel like i learn a lot whenever that gets brought up :)

[@medeatigger9199]

The big truth is, that is easily leads to obsessive behaviors around food. Thoughts like "I can either have toast now, OR I can have a drink later", will easily become your small personal hell.

[@AChickandaDuck]

The thumbnail though 🤣🤣

[@AbbeysKitchen]

😂

[@MrsBeachPerson]

I have to disagree. WW has stood the test of time and has been around since the 60's. I have met many successful members that look and feel great. We are talking over 10 years weight loss success. Some go way back and even attended workshops with their Mothers. WW, or Wellness Wins is more then a weight loss program btw. They work with you on the 4 pillars of health which is a healthy mindset, sleep, activity and nutritious foods. Personally, I have successfully lost 35 pounds and have kept it off for 3 years. Losing weight was the easiest with WW and what has kept me in the program is how good I feel and my yearly heath statistics have improved. Many nurses attend our meetings and WW is doctor endorsed. It is a great community with kind people.

[@francescad7046]

I gained and lost the same 5 pounds over years of doing WW after I initially started it after gaining 20 pounds in college. I took a foundations of nutrition class as a pre-req for a program and learned about intuitive eating and it changed my life with food. I vowed I would never track again. WW is stress inducing ! Please find something else :)

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I'm glad you've found something that works for you!

[@JaneEMcLernon]

When my son and daughter were young, I decided that I wasn't going to argue about food or sleep because, like breathing, you need to eat and sleep or you die. It seemed to work. They're both extremely healthy adults and my son is a chef. What are your thoughts on Keto as rebranded Atkins?

[@Warm_Cardi]

I used to eat their jello for entire day before going out for dinner because I wanted to restrict calories :( I genuinely felt like jello the other day and bought ww jello again thinking it is healthier choice for my craving. IT WAS HORRIBLY SYNTHETIC 😂 I really don’t know how I used to eat like 3 bowls of it for entire day 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh no, I'm so sorry for your experience!

[@bethwilliams8748]

That was your choice, it’s not what WW is telling you to do.

[@marysusa6985]

WW is the best diet for gaining weight. I used it for about 25 years in order to lose 20lbs for the first part of every year and gain back 30 during the rest of the year. I did that so many times that I got up to 290lbs before I decided to give up dieting once and for all. Since then, i have slowly taken off and kept off 60lbs . Diet is the nastiest four letter word for anyone that wants to love themself and have self esteem. Thank God I got of that rollercoaster.

[@ana-zu8ox]

My mom and I did EWYN for a couple of months and it was horrible. On the first day our case worker (or whatever they're called) asked for history of eating disorders and I explained that I had previously intentionally restricted to one meal a day and she proceeded to tell me that didn't count because anorexia is "literally not eating anything" (I later went on to develop full blown anorexia because I believed my relationship with food was normal and continued these habits). Only certain foods were allowed and only certain amounts and everything had to be tracked. We were weighed every couple of days. One of the things we had to do was cardio so my mom and I started going on bike rides because we enjoyed it. The girl told us that wasn't okay because it would make us gain muscle which would stop us from losing weight. I gained all the weight back that I had lost and it furthered my shitty relationship with food. Nutrition places should be designed to create healthy relationships and enhance a person's health, not focus on losing x amount of weight no matter the cost.

[@jacrae]

Thank you for all this! I signed up for WW 2 years ago, and in the first few months, I lost 15 pounds! Then I just stopped losing weight. I had started gaming the system, and stopped eating foods that were high in points and did everything I could to save my points for the weekend. I wouldn't eat oatmeal because I didn't want to waste my point on that. I would overeat certain things to earn points so I could have more for later. It just made my whole mindset around food so unhealthy. Of course it stopped working, I ended up quitting, and now I'm even heavier than when I started. I began looking into intuitive eating and I'm trying to heal my relationship with food. It's slow going, but I feel better about eating now, and am starting to really pay attention to what actually tastes good (donuts don't taste as good as I remember!), how I feel after eating, and not just eating everything on my plate because I have the points to do it.

[@ItsonlyNatalie]

Urgh weight watchers. Ruined my whole teenage life when it came to food. Never enjoyed food due to the fact I was continuously eating porridge made with water instead of milk, avoiding avocado and eggs because they were too high in points, never buttering my toast or bread. Just absurd. Was constantly hungry and ‘scared’ of certain foods 😂 ever since I’ve taken a more satiating approach I’ve enjoyed my food a LOT more and stopped worrying about weight because it doesn’t define me. I’ve not weighed myself in years but I’m super happy with my size despite the fact I’m eating avocado every single day 😂

[@emmabeckett6451]

Thanks for talking about this. One of my friends was made to go to weight watchers when we were in high school. I will never forget when she sobbed in mine and my other friend’s arms because she was so ashamed at the weigh ins. I don’t think she was forced to continue, thank goodness, but it’s terrible that so many kids are made to go through this.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh wow, I’m so sorry for her experience 🙁

[@laural6479]

Can we really consider Oprah a success story though? She yo-yo’s constantly

[@EvadoCouto]

I was going to say, it seems like she has had a really tough relationship with food. That can’t be fixed with a diet plan. I love Oprah but it breaks my heart that she was likely my first overt exposure to diet culture.

[@SarahBent]

I can't remember where I read I but I once saw a quote that if Oprah, with all her resources can't lose weight and keep it off, why am I beating myself up about it.

[@thatbee3585]

@@SarahBent true and well said my friend

[@EvadoCouto]

@@SarahBent ah I’ve read that somewhere too! Speaks volumes

[@Sandreline]

The Podcast "Maintenance Phase" did a couple episodes on her, and it's so much worse than I had realized. She has dealt with a ton of disordered eating.

[@nancyciampa3485]

I lost 92lb on WW 42 years ago. I've kept it off. I have to admit that until today when I look at food I see points. I've have since transferred to My Fitness Pal and I'm very happy. I know I'm very late to this video. I've just recently discovered you and have been enjoying all of your videos. Thanks for sharing.

[@juah5800]

Is there a better “glorified “ app or tracker you recommend? I used to do WW and it was easy to just select whole meals rather than put food in individually ingredient as some apps require. 🤷🏻‍♀️but i felt it was too restrictive calorically for my already conservative weight loss goals

[@jamiemaxcold9325]

I like Lose it! Honestly though they all kinda do the same thing

[@juah5800]

@@jamiemaxcold9325 thank you! And I agree. I guess the real challenge is to understand the true meaning of a portion and just eat generally healthy.

[@battyb3080]

I track bites app. You can do ww keto calories and more ! Also you can set your goals to whatever you would like for points and calories

[@puddlesplasher7]

Cronometer, bc you can focus on more than just calories... you'll learn which foods are most nutrient dense without trying to, while also looking at calories if you want

[@jemmas_balance]

Hi there, I don't know if this is helpful, but on "my fitness pal" you can make meals that you usually eat, and then you just have to click on the one meal... So you essentially are just tracking all the ingredients separately once. I feel like calorie counting apps get a super bad rap, but i feel like they give you a super good understanding on food and nutrition. Maybe that's just me, but it honeslty saved me from my eating disorder :)

[@jayemveekay1719]

This is the only.program I know that works and stays off. I've seen several dieticians and nutritionists who agree

[@lisaredwine4857]

I love weight watchers. I've lost lots of weight, which I regained when I dropped it. My fault not theirs. Weight watchers, these days, is designed to gradually help you to make better choices. It has always had the goal of getting to goal at which point membership is free if you continue to weigh in once a month and stay within your healthy range. And you can't forget the weekly meetings which help inspire you and give you support. Not just the topics, but the other members. We support each other. Other diets may work for some people, but my relationship with food isn't great. I need some accountability, which the weekly weigh in provides. The plan isn't confusing after you've been on it a week. Also, the points aren't just calorie counting. The points are based on calories, fat, fiber, sugar, and added sugar. I think you missed the boat on this one.

[@nunder86]

I tried WW a few years ago and tried the blue and green plans. I don't remember exactly how long I did it, but I do recall having to pay a penalty for canceling my membership early (a big red flag for potential new members). I quit the plan because I had very little weight loss and started having a "negative relationship" with food. I decided to track a typical day eating on WW on My Fitness Pal and found that I was hardly eating 1,200 calories per day. I failed to lose weight because I was on a starvation diet. I also had negative experiences with the community aspect of the plan, finding that the official Facebook members were a bunch of bullies with a superiority complex.

[@dccalling5960]

My mom put me on weight watchers when I was 9. I have no idea why she thought that was a good idea, but it was the first of many diet plans she put me on as a kiddo. I'm 25 and I've only recently started to understand how fucked up that was. My mom was misguided, but genuinely had my best interests at heart. I'll never forgive weight watchers for trying to make money off of people's desperation, and particularly not for trying to fake the calorie counting, which is what made my mom sign me up for the program in the first place. My point allowance was 35, if I remember correctly. No, I remember correctly. My mom told me I'd lose more if I didn't use as many points. She suggested 15-25 points.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh wow, I'm sorry for your experience!

[@raneemacintosh6842]

Never understand when parents put kids that young 'on a diet'. At that age, a child has no income, no car, and limited amounts of unsupervised time. The parents are in charge of most of what a kid eats. If a parent is concerned about a child's weight, why put them on a plan you pay for when it's already mostly in your control how much they eat?

[@beraudmusic]

That’s crazy especially considering that at 9, she has complete control over what you eat anyway. Like, she could have just fed you a healthier diet without calling it a diet.

[@dot3518]

But it was your Mothet that decided less was better.

[@jennathebookworm]

I follow an influencer who is (I hate to use this term) morbidly obese, and she started on weight watchers over a year ago. She did lose 50lbs but then plateaued. After consulting with a dietician she realized she had only been eating 1200-1500 calories a day using the point system ... putting her in over a 1,000 calorie deficit. She completely messed up her bmr and is now having to repair it. I think it can go either way with WW. You can end up eating way too much or way too little. It’s not a foolproof system.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Oh wow!

[@ClickityClackity]

Abbey, I would love a video on how to communicate with friends/family members who are using a lot of triggering diet language. I have some friends that are currently on a diet and I realized my first response was to run very far away. Lol not the best response.

[@DD-po2hh]

That would be smart

[@cassiemagera]

Seconding this suggestion - my mom is currently on a super restrictive diet (same diet she's tried and failed 15+ times before) and it's painful for me to watch. I tried reasoning with her but she wasn't receptive at all. I'd love any tips at all about how to get through to her.

[@carochan86]

@@cassiemagera I'd say lead by example. If you know her doctor I'd contact them and have the doctor have a chat with her.

[@carochan86]

Same . When I go out with the friend on the restrictive diet I'm just going to say nothing. When they told me how their plan works I need to be better at being neutral and just listen. I know my friend is uneducated on food nutrition and has a dated mind set of how to lose weight.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

I have a video about this! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqK3q3uiitGIaa8

[@michellemciver409]

I appreciate your analysis of the program. I lost over 40 lbs on WW years ago and it also reinforced the wrong attitude towards food. I also didn't learn to how to make proper food choices - I just focused on my points budget. I've since left WW and looking to learn to have a better approach to nutrition for the long term.

[@annag4661]

I remember like it was yesterday how excited I was that I lost 7 pounds in one week... I was 8 years old. EIGHT YEARS OLD!!! Makes me sick that weight culture just rebranded and is still as rampant as before :/

[@MontieAdams]

my relationship with food is slowly but surely improving thanks to your videos. keep it up!

[@AbbeysKitchen]

So glad my videos have been helpful for you!

[@Jess-qv6uf]

Is it wrong that I miss WW. This is where I started my Journey. I definitely do see pro's and con's. Through my journey with them I did loose 90 pounds. I quit and I started calories and I was way under eating. I do miss the points though I cant lie I think it was fun. currently reverse dieting to fix the metabolism but still have weight I want to loose its very tempting to go back but knowing what I know and have learned on my journey I will do things so much different this time around. Plus I will be working with a dietician next loose mode.

[@janetpugliesi3203]

Wish you would have been around when I was a child and my Mother put me through h..with my weight...she told meI was fat when there were pics of me being a 5'7" stick..she was a sick puppy!! Needless to say I grew up to have major food issues.... thanks to my Mother!!!

[@jocelynbulger]

I did ww in the spring and even though I quit in June, I still have a weird fear of regular cheese, peanut butter, and avocados even though these are some of my favorite foods. I don’t even remember the last time I bought cheese that wasn’t “reduced fat”. Yuck.