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NutriSystem
Lose weight with meals conveniently delivered to your home.
QUICK FACTS
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- Established: 1972
- Founder: Harold Katz
- Headquarters: Fort Washington, Pennsylvania
- Stock Symbol: NTRI
- Accessibility: Online
- Diet Type: Low-fat, Low-calorie, Meal Delivery
- Gender: Male and Female
- Celebrity Endorsements: Janet Jackson
- Get started by saving with these Nutrisystem Coupons
BACKGROUND
NutriSystem is one of the most recognizable names in weight loss and has rightly earned its place among the top diets. Founded in 1972, NutriSystem has helped millions of people lose weight on its convenient portion-controlled meals. This program takes the guess work out of dieting and many people find it to be an easy approach to healthy weight loss.
NutriSystem is one of the first diets that earned its marks by offering a hassle-free way to diet with its meal-delivery service. The diet plan takes care of the majority of grocery shopping, cooking and portioning by delivering meals and snacks that are calorie-controlled and pre-prepared. All you have to do is heat them up and enjoy them, supplementing with a few fresh grocery store items. NutriSystem originally offered shelf-stable, but starting in early 2011 added a fresh-frozen line of meals.
Most health experts agree that the NutriSystem diet is healthy and nutritionally sound. The foods are low in saturated and trans fats, and sodium. All the foods have a low glycemic index, and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids to promote heart health and fiber to promote satiety. Together, these features make up the NutriSystem Advanced system.
There are a range of plans that are tailored to suit different nutritional needs. NutriSystem offers plans specifically for men, women, diabetics and vegetarians. There are also a number of plans available at different price-points.
When you sign up with NutriS ystem, you'll also receive a Mindset Makeover behavioral guide, which is an 13-week online plan to help you better understand your relationship to food. It provides steps for taking control of your eating habits. NutriSystem customers also have online access to health information, community support, weekly newsletters and tracking tools.
Plans and meals are selected and ordered from NutriSystem's website. You'll receive 28 days worth of food that come in shelf-stable containers that you heat up before eating. The only other food that you will need to purchase are fresh fruits and vegetables.
NutriSystem offers the following plans:
NutriSystem Advanced: This program is a low-glycemic plan that also includes omega-3 fatty acids and natural fiber to promote heart health and satiety. Launched in 2008, all NutriSystem plans adhere to the Advanced nutrient guidelines of "good carbs," low fat, healthy protein, and high-fiber pre-packaged meals.
NutriSystem Select: A program that features 3 weeks of shelf-stable foods that you either custom-select or choose from a Favorites package and one week of new frozen entrees and desserts like pizza and ice cream bars.
NutriSystem Flex: The Flex plans offers a more economical and practical menu with just five days worth of NutriSystem meals per week rather than seven. The Flex plan offers you the same convenience of the NutriSystem program, but also with the freedom to prepare your own meals or dine out.
NutriSystem Nourish: This is a book that lays out a 28-day weight-loss program that you can follow using the NutriSystem principles. You can create the meal plan outlined in the book with foods from your local grocery store, order the NutriSystem meals online or combine the two approaches.
NutriSystem D: Created specifically for the dietary needs of diabetics, NutriSystem launched this line of foods in 2009. In trials, subjects lost 16 times as much weight on NutriSystem D as those who didn't use the plan, in addition to lowering their blood sugar level five times more and reducing their A1c (glycated hemoglobin) by 0.9.
NutriSystem Vegetarian: The vegetarian program has the same quality and science-based nutrition as you would expect from other NutriSystem programs, but with a stronger reliance on a plant-based diet. All meals and snacks contain no meat, but plenty of good carbs and satiating protein.
NutriSystem for Men: Follow the weight loss footsteps of guy's guys like Dan Marino and Larry the Cable Guy, with healthy, balanced meals. This program is slightly high in calories than the women's program, to help men lose weight at a healthy weight without suffering through unnecessary hunger.
Nu-Kitchen Fresh for NutriSystem: This partnership between Nu-Kitchen and NutriSystem that features chef-inspired, fresh and natural meals delivered to your door. It is the most premium line of NutriSystem's meal delivery options.
Nutrisystem Video Review
Having trouble viewing? Click here to watch the Nutrisystem Video.
Other videos
Pros & Cons of the NutriSystem Diet
NutriSystem Featured in Diet Food Challenge on Good Morning America
PRO
- Makes it clear what you need to do to lose weight
- Many people have found weight loss success through NutriSystem
- Features a wide variety portion-controlled healthy meals and snacks
- Offers a number of programs that meet the different dietary needs of anyone who wants to lose weight
- Provides balanced nutrition
- Promotes exercise
- Meal Delivery offers tremendous convenience
- Encourages the consumption of fresh produce
- Promotes weight loss at a healthy rate
- Named #5 in the Best Commercial Diets by US News, 2012
CON
- Pre-packaged foods can be high in sodium
- Some people struggle to maintain their weight loss after they stop eating NutriSystem meals
- Does not teach how to prepare your own healthy meals
USER REVIEWS
A sampling of feedback and experiences shared by our community.
I tried nutrisystem in 2008 and lost 28 pounds. It was the only diet I ever went on that actually worked,yes it is a little expensive, with the veggies and dairy but if you stick to it it works. - Lori 6/28/11
I've been on NS, the diabetic program, for 3 months. I've lost 35 pounds and my blood sugar has come WAY down (from mid 200's to low 100's). And I don't find the food unpalatable at all. You can customize your order, so anything I don't like I just don't order again, and anything I like I order more off on the next shipment. Customer service has been excellent, and there is a huge member support that is extremely helpful. Plus, I AM learning how to eat properly to keep the weight off when I reach goal. Yay, Nutrisystem! - Betty 6/16/11
it absolutely works if you follow it correctly. It is easy to follow as well, but the food is horrible!!! There are only a few things that are tolerable, and even if you customize your order you will get extremely tired of eating those same things over and over. They have a plan where you get these other foods added that are frozen. They are WAY better, but you only get a couple of weeks worth of it then your back to eating the other horrible food. Totally not worth it. I've tried it three times because I did lose the weight, but I couldn't handle the food. - Whitney 5/17/11
The portion sizes are sooo small. It's not possible to just grab and go. To feel satisfied you have to add fruits and lots of vegetables. It's not as mindless as I thought it was going to be. Fruits and vegetables are expensive. Overall it works because your fat/calories are so restricted and because no one wants to wstet all the money they spent on the program. I didn't mind the food. I have don't have gourmet taste or anything. No worse than the frozen/dried meals in stores now. I will probably not buy another month worth of food. Could have probably lost weigt eating lean cuisines, protein bars etc. I think nutrisystem is a good jump start to a diet and healthier eating. - TB 1/21/11
See our in-depth Nutrisystem review completed in 2010.
Leave Your Own Review and Rating
DIET and NUTRITION
Whenever people sign up for a meal delivery diet, the big question is "What can I eat?" With NutriSystem, there are over 140 meal and snack options to choose from. Pancakes, macaroni and cheese, chicken noodle soup, chicken parmesan, tacos are just a few of the entrees, while snacks include bars and pretzels. Dessert isn't out of the picture with options like oatmeal raisin cookies, orange creme bars and chocolate chip pudding. Each meal is pre-packaged and prepared to the appropriate portion size. Many items are ready-to-eat but some require heating.
All of the NutriSystem meals are low on the gyclemic index and contain a balanced proportion of quality carbohydrates (55%), good fats (25%) and protein (20%). Meals are also low in sodium and trans fat, thanks to the new NutriSystem Advanced program featuring heart-healthy omega fatty acids and soluble fiber.
The women’s programs contain about 1,200 calories and men’s contain about 1,500 calories per day. Each day, you’ll eat three meals and two snacks. You can either custom select your own meals or choose an automated meal and snack menu. Shelf-stable foods do not need to be refrigerated. You are also encouraged to consume six servings of fresh fruits and vegetables each day, which can be purchased at your grocery store or farmer's market.
A typical day on the program includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, one snack and a dessert. Below is a sample menu from the Nutrisystem Select program, which features some fresh-frozen items:
- Breakfast – Golden French Toast; 8 oz. skim milk; strawberries
- Snack – Low-fat cheese stick; grapes
- Lunch – Chicken Quesadilla; bell peppers with fat free dressing
- Dinner – Buffalo Chicken Wrap; side salad with dressing
- Dessert – Fudge Swirl Sundae
EXERCISE
As part of the Advanced program, NutriSystem has created three workout DVDs. Two of the DVDs were created with the help of fitness expert Leslie Sansone, titled Women’s Walk and Silver Walk. The third DVD is geared towards men, and was created by former NFL pro Vaughn Hebron and is called Functional Movement Workout. Each Advanced 28-Day program will come with the DVD that best complements the weight loss program ordered.
When you eat NutriSystem's carefully portion-controlled meals, you will lose weight without exercise. However, your weight loss will be more effective if you incorporate exercise. You will see faster results, have less trouble keeping the weight off and enjoy better overall health. In addition to the DVD you will receive with your order, there are numerous ways that you can add exercise to your life. The NutriSystem program focuses more on the diet than the exercise, so you are to choose whatever type of physical activity you wish to engage in. Find something you enjoy and that interests you. This will keep you motivated and looking forward to your workouts. There are online forums available to dieters for tips and suggestions from other members. Below are just a few examples of some popular choices:
- Zumba
- Aerobics classes
- Walking with a buddy
- Kickboxing
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Biking
- Swimming
- Jogging
NUTRISYSTEM FAQ
Common questions asked about the NutriSystem program by our community. Click each to see the full answer.
What meals are on the menu for NutiSystem D? - Mike 5/25/11
What is the cost of NutriSystem? - David 6/4/11
Can you buy a sample of NutriSystem? - Sandy 7/6/11
CONCLUSION
NutriSystem is a well-recognized and successful weight loss program that has helped millions of people lose weight and improve their health. Its convenient and portion-controlled meals are delivered to your door every month making it easy to eat healthy as you lose weight. Often, individuals end up gaining weight back once they stop using the program. As successful as this program is in helping people shed pounds, it does not teach you how to eat and prepare your own healthy meals. If you wish to maintain your weight loss, you cannot simply go back to eating the way you did before NutriSystem, but must continue to eat portion controlled meals.
See how NutriSystem compares to its competitors in our Meal Delivery Diet Comparison.
NUTRISYSTEM SLIDESHOWS
Other Slideshows About NutriSystem
7 Weight Loss Plans Fit for Fall
NUTRISYSTEM RESOURCES
NutriSystem Review at Everyday Health
Common Misspellings
Nutri System, Nutrasystem, Nutra system, Nutresystem, Nutrisystem.com, Nutrisytem, Nutrisytem
DietsInReview.com is a paid affiliate of Nutrisystem, Inc.
Featured Diets
Related Diets: Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Medifast , Nu-Kitchen Fresh for NutriSystem, NutriSystem Advanced, NutriSystem Advanced Silver , NutriSystem D, NutriSystem Flex, NutriSystem for Men, NutriSystem Select, Glycemic Index
User Feedback
(Page 2 of 9, 179 total comments)Bonnie Haas
Tried this diet and religiously followed it but after two weeks of this horrible food (except for my own fresh supplements) I didn't lose anything. The counselor was kind but the scale didn't budge even after her counseling. Decided to quit but the rep I called kept trying to find ways to keep me on the program. THEN he said I owe another $62.00 because I didn't follow through in the "two month" special...which wasn't made clear to me in the beginning. Very disappointing results. Shame on you, Marie Osmand!!
posted Jun 5th, 2011 12:54 pmKarina
Well I have to tell I am on the Silver program, because I have an underactive thyroid.
posted May 31st, 2011 7:24 pmThe food is sooooooooo nasty!! I basically load up on the hot sauce anytime I eat! Also I have heard that if you are on the NS system for a while you could end up Kidney problems..., just an fyi
ricky
I lost weight for sure. the food was decent but the convenience made it totally worth it.
posted May 31st, 2011 6:26 pmJane Ellis
WARNING: Nutrisystem offers a "full" refund but, in fact I paid $299.89 total ($279.94 plus 19.95 shipping) and only got back $240.04 AND had to pay for returning the box for a total loss of $79.80 and on my husband's separate order, we lost $98.75. Numerous phone calls have not helped although I returned both orders within 7 days. I have read reviews elsewhere and see that other people have had the same experience. We returned the orders because the food was terrible and because we thought we would get a true refund. DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY.
posted May 23rd, 2011 1:48 pmwhitney
it absolutely works if you follow it correctly. It is easy to follow as well, but the food is horrible!!! There are only a few things that are tolerable, and even if you customize your order you will get extremely tired of eating those same things over and over. They have a plan where you get these other foods added that are frozen. They are WAY better, but you only get a couple of weeks worth of it then your back to eating the other horrible food. Totally not worth it. I've tried it three times because I did lose the weight, but I couldn't handle the food. Won't be trying it again. Really want to lose weight? Get a booklet on what is acceptable for diabetics to eat. Any dietitian will have one or you can get it online. I had to eat that way while pregnant because I had gestational diabetes. I lost weight while pregnant! It is excellent for anyone to do, and it is easy to come up with many meals that taste great!
posted May 17th, 2011 11:31 amYou have to learn how to eat the right way. The right amount of carbs and the right portions. Doing this becomes a way of life, and you will lose weight and keep it off!
cjstar
Ordered online, chose items i might like. Order came one or two days later UPS. Was what I orderd. Got the veg and fruit from supermarket. Started today, so far so good. Going to modify next order slightly, order and then cancel before third order last call date.
posted May 16th, 2011 3:59 pmRhonda
Do not order this junk... I repeat DO NOT waste your money. The absolutely worst food I have ever put in my mouth. (and I ate school cafeteria food ). I returned one order , got a tracking number, followed directions and NEVER got my money back even after calling. Please find another diet plan. I do not know how anyone can say they like this food.
posted May 3rd, 2011 8:33 pmJohn
The food is convenient and well portioned. The cost isn't high and the supplement food isn't expensive either. If you can't stand the taste if this that is probably why you need a diet in the first place and it's never going to be healthy without exercise also. I'm a regular guy that has trouble dropping lbs and NS is great for me.
posted May 1st, 2011 2:28 amLarry Carter
I ordered NS for one month did not like the food and cancelled a couple weeks ago. This month I am still receiving food and being charged. They make it very difficult to cancel and send food back.
posted Apr 25th, 2011 2:17 pmPatti Memmer
I just want to know the cost.
posted Apr 17th, 2011 3:38 pmshirley coleman
I don't like the taste of the food, sometimes I even throw it up - and it taste even worse the second time around. I am going to cancel my order.
posted Apr 15th, 2011 12:25 pmLessie Nixon
I have used Nutrisystem successfully in the past, and have recommended it, but they now routinely fail to fill orders correctly - intentionally or through carelessness substantially reducing the number of foods ordered and replacing them with unwanted items. This raises questions about their concern for their customers. I recommend that anyone using the system keep a copy of orders made on line and open your shipments immediately.Perhaps the business has grown too big. I will help by being one less customer and work with more trustworthy organizations if I diet in the future.
posted Apr 13th, 2011 8:41 pmtoni
No offense but it's disgusting pretend food. I thought I'd be getting real food. All it was was packaging and bubble wrap. Sodium and yuk. I thought about sending it back but I didn't want to pick it out of the garbage. Heat things up and take two bites then dump it. So that's the science you pay for. yuk yuk yuk.blaaaaaaaaaaa.. No only that you still have to buy your fruits and vegetables to add to the diet. So forget buying it period and just buy your fruits and vegetables and don't waste your money on this crap.
posted Apr 11th, 2011 11:18 amVickie
The food isn't fantastic, but it's not terrible, and you can just order the things you like. It actually called for me to eat more than I wanted to, so there was never any "starving." I lost 50 pounds in 6 months, and I"ve kept it off. Best HEALTHY diet ever.
posted Apr 6th, 2011 6:01 pmDgirl
DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY!! The frozen foods are good and many of the lunch foods are good, but the non-frozen dinners are so high in sodium and they taste terrible! I am not a picky eater (which is why I have a weight problem to begin with) but the dinners are just aweful. And of the snacks and breakfast foods, all of the caky type things like carrot cake and cinnamon rolls either have mold on them or they are rock hard. We signed up for the automated delivery, which they don't even notify you that they will be processing the order - you just see the money taken out of your account on the day they 'process' the order. I called to say I don't want it but they said it already shipped and the frozen stuff will be delivered today. This is supposed to be a 28 day supply and the last frozen order was only 2 weeks ago. They said I can return the stuff at my own expense. I say again DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY!
posted Apr 6th, 2011 5:36 pmDan
I had success with Nutrisystem. I don't like cooking and have low self control with eating. Nutrisystems' foods kept me full. I did my own form of weight loss. Only NS food plus some vegetables. 1200 calories a day when I need 3200. I would lose 4-5 pounds a week at the start. I like the system if you want to lose weight fast.
posted Apr 2nd, 2011 8:39 pmMonica
Unfortunately, I had a terrible experience with Nutrisystem. The food was NOT edible. They charged me without permission, they would not provide me with a copy of my contract (electronically or otherwise) and then charged me again to cancel! Then, they wouldn't let me file a complaint with customer service. Not to mention I had much better result with Weight Watchers! Please DO NOT waste your money on Nutrisystem.
posted Mar 28th, 2011 10:34 amWolfe
I have just forced myself thru 1 1/2 months of this junk and will be tossing most of it that is left in the garbage! Most of the lunches ( reconstitued soups) are worse than WW2 C or K rations , and not as good as store bought dry mixes. The deserts are over the top with chocolate Bars , small cakes,and mix your self Puddings! I have tried most every thing that they produce and find 2//3 of the products to be subpar in taste and texture and eye appeal. Save yourselves a lot of money and learn to make correct serving sizes,and the correct foods,and do a minimal amount of excerise each week and you will lose weight and become healthier. Also be prepaired to spend another 1/3rd more for the add to's in vegetable's and extra's.
posted Mar 25th, 2011 10:40 pmauhi
I started nutrisystem today and the food in fact is not bad at all! Almost not hungry at all, i have manage, hope everything goes well. :)
posted Mar 25th, 2011 9:47 pmRosie
This diet is good for folks who can't plan and can stick with highly processed foods plus some salads. I didn't like the food - high carb, high sodium. It really worked for my sister but with my diabetes and high blood pressure, the sodium level was too high. My doctor wants me to see a dietician to reduce salt.
posted Mar 25th, 2011 8:24 pm