About Jenny Craig

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By Margaret Dilloway
eHow Contributing Writer

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Whether you've got 20 or 200 pounds to lose, weight loss is a difficult task to undertake alone. That's why Jenny Craig created her weight loss program. With people ready to help you and meals delivered to your door, losing weight becomes an easier proposition.

History of

In 1983, American Jenny Craig (formerly Genevieve Guidroz) and her husband, Sidney Craig, founded a health center in Sydney, Australia. Their program was different because not only did it offer exercise for weight loss, it included nutrition. Two years later, the couple brought their successful program to the United States. Today, Jenny Craig franchises have branched out into Canada, Puerto Rico, and New Zealand. Their mantra is that your health (and weight loss) is about "mind, body, and spirit."

The Facts

Jenny Craig weight loss centers are in most areas of the United States. The Jenny Craig website has a "center finder" to locate your nearest center. If you don't want to travel to a center, or there are none nearby, Jenny Craig also offers an "at-home" program. You'll be assigned a consultant to help you reach your goals. There is a sign-up fee, plus the cost of food, payable in advance.

Features

Your consultant will advise you on your weight-loss program, help you devise a workout plan, and motivate you if you feel down. If you choose the in-person program, you'll meet with your consultant face to face. If you choose the in-home program, you'll talk to your consultant on the phone. Email consults may also be available. Food is delivered to your doorstep. Prepare it yourself by adding milk (as for cold cereal) or microwaving it.

Misconceptions

People think that microwaveable, pre-made food will taste bad. Individual tastes vary, but the flavor of the Jenny Craig food tries to stay as close to the original food as possible. Therefore, Jenny Craig will send you items that you're used to, like lasagna, pizza and brownies. Another misconception is that the food price will be high. If you spend your money on Jenny Craig instead of on take-out food, you'll find it costs less.

Benefits

Over time, the smaller portion sizes train your stomach to need less food. The portions also teach you what correct portions look like, so you can stick with it after you get off the program. Food preparation is minimal, which makes the diet easier. Online support is available. You can also get support and advice from other Jenny Craig members in their online forums.

Risk Factors

You have to provide additional food, such as fresh vegetables and fruits, and milk. The serving portions are small. It may take a week or more to get used to the small sizes; the program suggests filling up on low-calorie items like certain vegetables. Sticking to the program is difficult after you lose the weight, stop eating the food, and you don't have your consultant anymore. Eating regular food may put the weight back on.