Is Jenny Craig diet a scam?

1) What is the Jenny Craig Diet Program?

The Jenny Craig Diet Program is a "counseling program" that helps people lose weight not only through "portion control", but also emotional balance. This is what separates Jenny Craig from just about every other diet program out there (other than perhaps Weight Watchers). Dieters will lose weight by consuming smaller than normal portions of the same types of foods they are accustomed to eating, and each dieter is given a diet counselor to not only offer advice, but more importantly to offer emotional support every step of the way.

2) What are the negative aspects of the Jenny Craig Diet Program?

Firstly, weight loss comes slowly because dieters consume the same types of fattening foods that made them fat in the first place, just smaller portion sizes. Dieters will lose weight simply via a reduction in portion size. Secondly, price is a negative aspect because all of the Jenny Craig meals, snacks and desserts come pre-packaged and are rather expensive. Dieters can expect to pay hundreds of dollars each month just for their food (this is in addition to the cost of the counselor).

3) What are the positive aspects of the Jenny Craig Diet Program?

This type of diet program is great for those who want to lose weight without having to stop eating the foods that they love. The foods are not special "dietetic foods" but rather they are simply normal everyday foods which are simply served in "smaller than normal portions".  Also, there is no thought/calculations involved (i.e. measuring, counting calories, cooking, etc.) because all meals, snacks and desserts come pre-packaged for your convenience.

4) How much weight loss can dieters expect each week using the Jenny Craig Diet Program?

If followed exactly, the average dieter can expect to lose anywhere from 2 to 5 pounds during the first week and approximately 1 pound per week thereafter. However, the more weight a person has to lose then the more weight loss they can expect. For example, someone who is 100 plus pounds overweight (severely obese) could lose as much as 10 pounds during the first week and 1 to 2 pounds per week thereafter.

5) What are some alternatives to the Jenny Craig Diet Program?

Alternatives to the Jenny Craig Diet Program include the Atkins Diet, the Paleolithic Diet, the Zone Diet and pretty much any diet out there that does not encourage dieters to consume unhealthy foods nor charge them outrageous amounts to do so.