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Losing weight on the Web

Vegetarian Times, Oct, 2001 by Maria Rabat

The Internet has forever changed the way we live, shop and even meet a mate. Now its changing the way we battle the bulge, too. A slew of online diet companies are offering 24-hour support and advice from nutritionists, fitness counselors and, through chat rooms and message boards, fellow dieters.

Some of the biggest players include eDiets.com, DietWatch.com and DietSmart.com. All boast a paying customer base of more than 300,000, made up mostly of 20- to 40-year-old women who like the convenience and anonymity--no meetings to rush to, no one passing judgment on setbacks or binges.

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Lisa Drayer, M.A., R.D., DietWatchs eCounseling program director, says a "warm, caring community" not only motivates her clients but keeps them coming back. Case in point: For more than a year, she has had daily chats with one client who has lost a remarkable 97 pounds. "Before coming to DietWatch, I was skeptical. I thought nutritional counseling could only work face-to-face. I stand corrected," she says.

Losing weight on the Web is also cheaper. Compared to conventional programs--which often require, say, a $20 enrollment fee, $40 a month for meetings, plus the cost of food--online fees are nominal. Most run $10 to $15 a month.

Merilee Kern, marketing manager for edicts, attributes its success to the high speed of Internet communication and affordable, personalized plans. "The Internet lets us give them what they demand: personalized diet plans, privacy and convenience," Kern says.

New members fill out a questionnaire about weight-loss goals, exercise habits and food preferences. Their answers produce a customized weekly meal plan designed to help them lose 1 to 2 pounds a week. A few services, including edicts and DietWatch, can accommodate vegetarians.

Do they work? In a study by Brown University, Internet dieters lost an average of 9 pounds and 2.5 inches from their waist in three months. As with any weight-loss plan, however, consult your healthcare practitioner before signing up.

Losing weight on the Web

Vegetarian Times, Oct, 2001 by Maria Rabat

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