Successful long-term weight loss isn’t about following a fad diet, cutting out foods you love, or extreme workouts. It’s about making small changes that work for your lifestyle and staying consistent with them.
Following a weight loss program that focuses on building a healthy relationship with food, exercising, and managing stress is more likely to lead to sustainable, long-lasting weight loss. (1) To help you, our team has spent hours researching and testing dozens of popular programs to narrow down those that are safe, supportive, and effective.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of an eating disorder or disordered eating, please call the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) Helpline at 1-800-931-2237 for support.
Best weight loss program overall
Our choice for the best weight loss plan is Noom Weight—a comprehensive program that goes beyond logging food and tracking calories. It’s one of the few weight loss programs that offers a behavioral component to help build long-term sustainable habits. As a registered dietitian, I appreciate that, instead of restricting foods, the app focuses on eating more nutrient-dense, whole foods to keep you feeling full. I also like that Noom Weight includes personalized coaching, daily challenges, and a large community for accountability.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best weight loss programs
- Best overall: Noom Weight
- Best for fasting: Simple App
- Best for women over 50: Reverse Health
- Best for men: Hims
- Best for women: Hers
- Best for metabolism: Lumen
- Best sustainable: Mayo Clinic Diet
- Best for seniors: Nutrisystem Complete 50
- Most flexible: WeightWatchers
- Best with coaching: Future
- Best plant-based: Trifecta Plant-Based Meal Plan
- Best app: Cronometer
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| Noom Weight | Simple App | Reverse Health | Hims | Hers | Lumen | Mayo Clinic Diet | Nutrisystem Complete 50 | WeightWatchers | Future | Trifecta Plant-Based Meal Plan | Cronometer | |
| Rating | ||||||||||||
| Starting cost | $70 | Free; $49.99/year for premium | $60 per month | $199 per month | $199 per month | $199 + $19 per month | $19.99 | $360 | $23 | $149 | $104.93 | Free; $9.99/month for premium |
| Personalization | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| App | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Support | Coach, community | AI-powered coaching, community | Coach, Community | In-app chat with experts | In-app chat with experts | Coach, Community | Coach, Community | Coach, community | Coach, community | Coach | Community | Community |
Best weight loss program overall: Noom Weight
Key product features
What you should know
Some people may benefit from Noom Weight more than others. Here are some things to consider before purchasing Noom Weight:
- One of our product testers found Noom Weight helpful and easy to use.
- Noom Weight is slightly more expensive than many other calorie-counting apps but offers more features and personalized support.
- A single month of Noom Weight costs $70 but can cost as little as $17.42 if you prepay upfront.
- Noom Weight may be a good option for someone who wants to learn how to build healthier habits using a structured program with coaching, daily tasks, lessons, and challenges to keep you on track.
Why we like Noom Weight as best overall
Noom Weight is a smartphone-based weight management program that uses behavior change strategies to help you form new habits to support long-term success. It includes educational lessons, virtual coaching, food and activity tracking, and community support.
You begin by taking a 10- to 15-minute quiz that asks basic questions about your gender, age, height, current weight, and goal weight. You’ll then answer specific questions about your activity habits, health status, current diet, and experience with dieting and weight loss.
Using this information, Noom will create a customized weight loss plan with a recommended daily calorie intake and personalized daily lessons. The plan is typically for around 16 weeks, but you can adjust that timeframe depending on your health goals.
One of our testers stopped using the app because it triggered past disordered eating habits. Closely tracking food—whether with Noom or a different weight loss program—has the potential to resurface unhealthy feelings that can impact your relationship with food. People with a history of disordered eating or eating disorders may want to avoid using online weight loss programs and instead work directly with a credentialed professional who is better suited to support their health needs.
Noom encourages all users to track what they eat, focusing on caloric density. Foods are divided into three groups—green, yellow, and orange—based on how many calories they have. Noom recommends that you get around 45% of your calories from yellow foods, 30% from green foods, and 25% from red foods.
Here are some of the foods that fall under each group:
- Green: Spinach, broccoli, bananas, strawberries, whole grain bread, brown rice, non-fat yogurt, and canned tuna
- Yellow: Grilled chicken, turkey breast, lean ground beef, fish, eggs, avocado, low-fat cheese, and black beans
- Orange: Nuts, seeds, oils, nut butter, raisins, red meats, desserts
One of our testers found that focusing on food colors and calorie intake was surprisingly helpful in improving her eating habits and overall protein intake.
“The color-coding system helped me be more mindful of my food choices,” she said. “It also helped me make sure I was eating enough protein, which I wasn’t doing before.”
Each Noom lesson is interactive to help you understand the root causes of your eating habits and set realistic goals. This treatment approach is based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which uses various strategies to change how you think and behave. Research suggests CBT can help people implement lifestyle changes that result in weight loss. (2)
While Noom coaches go through a structured health and wellness coaching program, they aren’t required to be registered dietitians. People looking for more clinical support have the option to combine Noom Weight with Noom Med, which pairs eligible patients with a board-certified physician or a physician-supervised nurse practitioner.
For more insights, visit our full Noom review.
What customers are saying
Noom Weight has received 63,522 reviews on Trustpilot. Users who are happy with Noom Weight enjoy the science and psychology behind the program, finding the daily lessons and personalized coaching especially helpful. Many users have reported weight loss and an improvement in mindset and the ability to build healthy habits.
Negative reviews mentioned technical issues with the app, the food logging system being time-consuming, and poor customer service/billing issues. Some people also felt conversations with their coach were scripted.
Verified reviewer Sarah H., who has used Noom for over two years, found the daily lessons to be the most helpful. “It’s the lessons that really set Noom apart–the first couple of months, the lessons are brilliant. They’re engaging, and I learned a lot about myself and why/how I eat the way I do,” she commented.
Although she lost weight using the program, she didn’t find her coach to be helpful. “The coach aspect is intended to be personalized, but it really is just copy and paste things they say to you.”
Verified reviewer Chloe D. reported experiencing issues with billing and customer service. “I asked for a refund in April, which they never processed. Good luck if you need help,” she commented.
Specs
| Monthly cost | $70 |
| Free trial | Get a 7- or 14-day trial for as low as $0.50 |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | Yes |
| Accountability | Community, coaching, app notifications, goal setting, recipes |
| Tracking | Nutrition, exercise, hydration, blood pressure,and blood sugar |
Best fasting program for weight loss: Simple App
Key product features
What you should know
Fasting can be an effective weight loss strategy, and using an app like Simple can help you stay on track.
- You may experience headaches or feel irritable, hungry, or tired for the first few weeks until your body adjusts to eating on a fasting schedule. Never fast for several days in a row without close supervision from a healthcare provider, as it can be dangerous to your health.
- Although the app is free to download, most personalized features require a paid subscription.
- Simple App may be particularly helpful for people looking to lose weight without counting calories or eliminating certain food groups.
Why we like Simple App as best for fasting
Simple is an app designed to help you stay consistent with your intermittent fasting journey. Intermittent fasting–limiting the amount of time you eat each day or week–has shown to be effective for weight loss in people who are overweight. (3)
I recommend the Simple App for those new to fasting because it is easy to follow and provides fasting-time reminders, personalized daily guidance, and education.
You can track your meals, water intake, and exercise to help build accountability and awareness. Users also have access to Avo™, an AI-powered chatbot that has been trained by dietitians, health coaches, and medical doctors to give you science-based answers 24/7.
Simple is unique because it uses advanced technology. You can easily log your food intake by typing in the foods you ate, using your voice, or taking a photo. After logging your food, Simple’s Nutrition Scores system will provide a score of low, fair, good, or optimal based on the food’s nutrient content.
However, it’s important to mention that the nutrition scores provided by Simple are only an estimate and assume average portion sizes. For example, if you don’t add details–like how many eggs or whether it was brown or white rice–the nutrition score may not be accurate.
If you’re not paying attention to your portion sizes and end up consuming more calories than your body needs during your eating window, you may not lose weight.
The app is free to download, but many features, including personalized insights, require a premium subscription.
Although it can be an effective weight loss strategy, intermittent fasting isn’t safe for everyone. People with existing health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease, should talk to a healthcare provider before starting intermittent fasting. (4)
If you’re interested in tracking your fast, check out our best intermittent fasting apps.
What customers are saying
The Simple App has over 200,000 reviews on the Apple App Store and 18,587 reviews on Trustpilot.
Positive reviews mention improvements in eating habits, diet quality, and weight. People also like that the app is easy to use and teaches them how to build healthier habits.
“This has been the only program that has motivated me to take better care of myself and not worry about the numbers on the scale.,” wrote verified reviewer Linda.
Negative reviews mention dissatisfaction with AI features, food logging, and difficulties getting refunds or canceling subscriptions.
Verified reviewer Graham D. found the chatbot helpful but voiced the need for improvements in the accuracy of food logging.
“The AI chat is good for helpful advice and recipe/food ideas,” he wrote. “The AI food logger is not so great, though. It doesn’t recognize a lot of food or scores items incorrectly, making it an inaccurate guide to your daily intake. For example, even logging something as ‘high protein,’ it can score that item as lacking in protein.”
Specs
| Yearly cost | Free; $49.99/year for premium |
| Free trial | Yes |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | No |
| Accountability | Community, 24/7 virtual wellness assistant, app notifications, recipes |
| Tracking | Food, exercise, hydration, and fasts |
Best weight loss program for women over 50: Reverse Health
Key product features
What you should know
Reverse Health is geared towards women over 40 who want a meal plan and exercises to help them on their weight loss journey.
- Reverse Health aims to understand the metabolic weight challenges of women over 40 and how to address them.
- The one-month plan is $60, the six-month plan is $144, and the three-month plan is $124, which is more expensive than other programs like Weight Watchers.
- Reverse Health is good for women who want to tackle midlife weight gain due to menopause.
Why we like Reverse Health as best app for women over 50
For women who may experience unintended weight gain as they age, Reverse Health could be a good option. It’s a women’s-only weight loss coaching program designed to address weight gain due to metabolic changes.
During the years leading up to menopause when estrogen levels dip, sleep quality tends to decline, and these factors can lead to an increased waist circumference with some extra body weight. (5) Reverse Health offers a personalized meal plan based on an online quiz and an exercise program to help get you moving, and a Facebook community with more than 20,000 members you can interact with and support each other.
The app, available on iOS and Android, offers beginner-friendly yoga and wall pilates videos. Wall pilates is a low-impact exercise that tones and strengthens the body without the need for extra equipment. The app specifically offers a 28-day wall pilates challenge to help you gain muscle, improve your core strength, and increase flexibility while on your weight loss journey. For those of you who want to focus on longevity-based training, have minor injuries, or are new to working out in general, pilates can be a great start. (6)
The program offers a range of weight loss programs. The 30-day Jumpstart is for people who want to jumpstart their weight loss journey and see quick results. The 90-day Transformation is for people who want to achieve long-term weight loss and improve overall health. It also offers the Maintenance Program, designed for people who have met their weight loss goals and want to maintain their current weight.
Reverse Health also allows you access to a library of more than 3,000 nutritious recipes.The program is designed for you to try the 12-week course on nutrition and mindset in addition to online coaching with a coach who can help you set goals and track your progress. There are lots of healthy meal options available on the app, from blueberry and banana overnight oats for breakfast, to cucumber and avocado chicken salad for lunch or dinner. For example, their Vibrant Green Smoothie includes a blend of nutrients in an all-in-one shake, including fresh spinach, avocado, half a banana, one scoop of protein powder, one tablespoon of flax seeds and 1 cup of almond milk, all for only 350 calories.
Reverse Health also offers menopause-specific diet plans including the 5-Day Easy Menopause Diet plan, which includes a breakfast, lunch, snack, and dessert menu.
To view prices, we had to take a detailed quiz, which asked about current weight, age, current amount of exercise, type of diet, allergies, and select body areas we want to work on. Before discounts, the one-month plan is $60, the six-month plan is $144, and the three-month plan is $124. Reverse Health offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Reverse health sells supplements that can boost metabolism, according to Reverse Health, appetite suppressants and digestive health supplements. Reverse Health also offers GLP-1 medications for those who are eligible. If you are eligible, you will meet with a clinician online, with monthly check-in calls. You will get the GLP-1 medication prescription and delivery to your home. Ozempic™, Wegovy™ or similar compounded semaglutide price starts at $199. Zepbound™, Mounjaro™ or similar compounded tirzepatide price starts at $299. Saxenda™ or similar compounded liraglutide price starts at $299.
What customers are saying
Reverse Health has garnered 4,773 reviews on Trustpilot with many positive notes about the program and customer service. That said, some people have had some technical difficulties with the app, leading to frustration.
“”I’m feeling more energetic and looking better in my clothes after following the nutrition and exercise plan in the app for 3 weeks. I love the daily page that lets me track my mood, hydration, exercise, and food intake for the day. The daily tips and training on nutrition and exercise are amazing. The variety of pilates, yoga, and strength and core fitness videos will provide me with more than I need for years to come. Thank you Anne K. for the excellent one on one advice on choosing an exercise routine. The one on one help/customer support is excellent. I highly recommend this app to any woman who wants to feel better emotionally and physically! It will get you there,”
Dana S. Trustpilot reviewer.
However, some customers have issues with billing practices and customer service.
“I canceled my subscription in 2023 and received notification from Reverse Health that my subscription was canceled and that a refund would be directed to PayPal. I received the refund. However, I was charged for an annual subscription again this year on August 9, 2024 after canceling the subscription a year ago. Reverse Health took advantage of my auto pay information and put it through the subscription. I didn’t realize I had to cancel auto pay on PayPal once I canceled the subscription. I’ve tried numerous tines to contact Reverse Health online and via phone to no avail. I should receive a refund for $179.00. Which was an unauthorized payment,” VB Trustpilot reviewer.
Specs
| Free trial | One month after users subscribers sign up for plan |
| Features | Video coaching, macro counting, Pilates |
| Month-to-month cost | $60 for the monthly plan |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
Best weight loss program for men: Hims
Key product features
What you should know
Hims is a telehealth platform that provides medications to help support weight loss, including Ozempic, Wegovy, and compounded semaglutide injectables and weight loss medications. To get started, you’ll take a quiz where you answer questions about your health to get an idea of options available to you. Once you choose your preferred method of medication, you’ll complete a medical intake for a provider to review. Your subscription will be delivered to your door, and you can track your progress and get expert support in the app.
- Hims offers weight loss prescription medication alongside nutrition education, tracking tools, and access to healthcare providers.
- Prices will vary depending on your treatment plans, but, for example, compounded semaglutide starts at $199 per month.
- This program is best for someone who is interested in prescription medication for weight loss and wants easy access to a provider. Note that Hims does not take insurance so this option is also best for those who may not have insurance.
Why we like Hims as best for men
Hims is a telehealth service that offers custom medication kits and GLP-1s under the supervision of a provider. GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1s) are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. (7) It’s important to note that this type of treatment is not right for everyone, is not a long-term solution, and should not be considered a “quick fix.”
Hims prescribes a variety of weight loss medications, including compounded semaglutide, Ozempic, Wegovy, and medication kits. Before getting started, you can take a quiz and answer questions about your lifestyle, goals, family history, and more to see if one of these programs is right for you. You will have to complete this process and create an account before you get information about specific options or any other eligibility requirements.
After signup, you’ll be able to access a habit tracker, a weight tracker, and chat support from medical experts. Your prescribed medications, such as GLP-1 Injections and/or a medication kit, will be shipped to your door. Included in your subscription is everything you need to take your medication: vials, sterile syringes, and alcohol wipes.
When we took the quiz, Hims suggested compounded semaglutide, which the brand says has the same active ingredient as Wegovy and Ozempic. However, compounded semaglutide is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Current FDA-approved semaglutide products to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes are Ozempic injections (offered by Hims) and Rybelsus tablets. Additionally, Wegovy injections (offered by Hims) are FDA-approved to help those with weight-related conditions. According to the FDA, patients “should not use a compounded drug if an approved drug is available to treat a patient.” (8)
You can switch to other options, such as a medication kit with a combination of prescriptions, such as Bupropion XL, Naltrexone, Metformin, vitamin B12, and Topiramate. These drugs are made to help support weight loss in combination with a low-calorie diet and exercise. However, there is not much evidence to support the role of vitamin B12 for weight loss, and Metformin is a drug that’s designed to treat type 2 diabetes. (9, 10, 11) The brand also offered Ozempic (starting at $1,799/month) as an option, but noted Ozempic had low stock and refills weren’t guaranteed, and did not give Wegovy as an option.
You’ll get ongoing check-ins, as well as access to unlimited messaging with a license provider to answer any questions you may have. Additionally, the company works with FDA-regulated facilities.
Prices will vary depending on your treatment plans, but, for example, compounded semaglutide starts at $199 per month. Using a prescription injection for weight loss isn’t for everyone. While Hims doesn’t take insurance, the company offers discounts for U.S. military, veterans, teachers, nurses, and first responders. It’s often cost prohibitive and also may not be the right choice for your long- or short- term health goals.
Related: The Best Weight Loss Programs for Men
What our experts say
We asked Angela Tran, DO, for her expert insight on Hims.
“Hims is a great option for men who have struggled with their weight for a long time despite their best diet and exercise efforts,” she begins. “For individuals who are fairly healthy otherwise and are considered low risk and do not have any significant health problems, then this would be a good option to explore, and the questionnaire can help direct one to the best option.”
That said, she notes there are a few recommendations she would make before considering this option.
“It is best to speak to a medical provider about options and side effects rather than automatically be given a medication kit,” she explains. “The combination of medications in the medication kit listed is considered excessive, and may potentially create more adverse effects in attempts to gain a result. Those who do have pre-existing medical conditions should consult with their own provider before pursuing this option.”
Specs
| Monthly cost | Starting at $199 for injectables, $79 for medications |
| Free trial | N/A |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | Yes |
| Accountability | Yes |
| Tracking | In-app |
Best weight loss program for women: Hers
Key product features
What you should know
Hers is a telehealth platform that is best for women who are looking for personalized medications to help support weight loss. Hers offers prescriptions for medications including Ozempic, Wegovy, and compounded semaglutide injectables and weight loss medications. You’ll take a quiz to understand what medications will work for you, then fill out a medical intake for a provider to review and complete your prescription. Hers also offers a companion app where you can access nutrition education, health tracking, and message a healthcare professional.
- Hers offers personalized weight loss prescription medication, plus nutrition education, tracking tools, and access to healthcare providers to help support weight loss.
- Prices will vary depending on your treatment plans, and Hers does not take insurance. To get an idea of price, compounded semaglutide starts at $199 per month.
- This option is best for you if you want prescription medication delivered right to your door, and is for those who may have additional health concerns that medication may help.
Why we like Hers as best weight loss program for women
Hers is part of the same company as Hims, and the telehealth service offers custom medication kits and GLP-1s specifically formulated for women and personalized for you. GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1s) are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. (7) All medication is distributed under the guidance of a licensed provider. It’s important to note that medical weight loss treatment is not for everyone, does not provide a long-term solution, and should not be considered a “quick fix.”
Hers prescribes a variety of weight loss medications, including compounded semaglutide, Ozempic, Wegovy, and medication kits. The brand claims a holistic approach to weight loss, and to further support your journey, you’ll also get access to educational content like nutrition guidance, recipes, and mental health support. The app provides guided programs, like a guide to reducing anxiety, that can help with your overall wellbeing.
One drawback is you must answer questions about your goals, habits, health history, and more, and create an account before you get information about medication options or any other eligibility requirements.
Once your intake is reviewed by a provider, your medications and anything you need to administer injections are shipped to you. We like that you’ll get ongoing check-ins and you can get nutrition education and contact licensed professionals via the Hers app.
Like when we took the quiz for Hims, Hers suggested compounded semaglutide, which the brand says has the same active ingredient as Wegovy and Ozempic. Alternatively, we could choose Ozempic (starting at $1,799/month), but the brand notes Ozempic had low stock and refills aren’t guaranteed, and did not give Wegovy as an option.
While Hers works with FDA-regulated facilities, compounded semaglutide is not approved by the FDA. Currently, the only FDA-approved semaglutide injections are Ozempic and Wegovy. (8)
As with Hims, you can opt for one of five combianations of prescription supplements, such as Bupropion XL, Naltrexone, Metformin, vitamin B12, and Topiramate. These drugs may help support weight loss in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise. However, there is not much evidence to support the role of vitamin B12 for weight loss, and Metformin is a drug that’s designed to treat type 2 diabetes. (9, 10, 11)
Prices will vary depending on your treatment plans, but, for example, compounded semaglutide starts at $199 per month. While Hims & Hers doesn’t take insurance, the company offers discounts for U.S. military, veterans, teachers, nurses, and first responders. Using a prescription medication for weight loss can be cost prohibitive, can have unwanted side effects (like nausea, bloating, and diarrhea), and may not benefit your long- or short- term health goals.
What our experts say
“Women often have more complex metabolic conditions that interfere with their weight loss progress,” Tran explains. “Those should be addressed prior to understanding which medication is best suited for them. While [Hers has] medical staff that review all applicants, having a conversation with a medical provider is far superior than filling out a questionnaire.”
Specs
| Monthly cost | Starting at $199 |
| Free trial | N/A |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | Yes |
| Accountability | Yes |
| Tracking | In-app |
Best metabolic weight loss program: Lumen
Key product features
What you should know
Lumen uses a portable breathalyzer and mobile app to measure and monitor your metabolism and whether your body is using fat or carbs for energy. The software then creates a customized nutrition plan based on your metabolic needs to support weight loss.
- Lumen helps you understand how nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress affects metabolism, providing immediate feedback that may encourage healthier habits.
- Starting costs for Lumen include a one-time fee of $199 for the device, then a monthly $19 membership fee to access all the features on the app. Initial costs are high, but may be worth it if it helps you make and break habits that support your goals.
- The plan aims to improve your metabolic flexibility, helping the body efficiently switch between carbs and fat for energy.
What you should know
Lumen uses a portable breathalyzer and mobile app to measure and monitor your metabolism and whether your body is using fat or carbs for energy. The software then creates a customized nutrition plan based on your metabolic needs to support weight loss.
- Lumen helps you understand how nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress affects metabolism, providing immediate feedback that may encourage healthier habits.
- Starting costs for Lumen include a one-time fee of $199 for the device, then a monthly $19 membership fee to access all the features on the app. Initial costs are high, but may be worth it if it helps you make and break habits that support your goals.
- The plan aims to improve your metabolic flexibility, helping the body efficiently switch between carbs and fat for energy.
Why we like Lumen as best for metabolism
The Lumen device lets you conduct lab-level metabolic testing in the comfort of your home and is our pick for best weight loss program for metabolism. (12) The hand-held device uses innovative technology that measures the CO2 level of your breath, the same measure used by metabolic doctors and clinics to estimate metabolism in the lab. (12) The breathalyzer sends the data to the mobile app to show your Lumen Level.
The Lumen Level ranges from one to five and indicates whether you’re currently using fat or carbs for energy.
- Level 1: Using only fat for energy
- Level 2: Using mostly fat for energy
- Level 3: Using a combination of carbs and fat for energy
- Level 4: Using mostly carbs for energy
- Level 5: Using only carbs for energy
The Lumen app uses the data to create a nutrition plan that matches your metabolic needs. Manipulating your daily carb and fat intake improves metabolic flexibility, making it easier for the body to shift between using carbs and fat for energy and may support your weight loss efforts. (13, 14)
A daily nutrition plan that matches your metabolism seems like a nice feature, but it may mean eating low-carb one day and high-carb the next. Lumen nutrition plans include healthy meal ideas, but it’s hard to plan ahead—shopping, prepping, cooking—if your nutrition needs change every day.
To get the most accurate data from your Lumen subscription, you need to measure your CO2 levels every morning before you eat, after every meal, before and after exercise, and before bed. You also need to log your daily food intake into the mobile app. After two weeks of consistent measuring and logging, Lumen displays your Flex Score—metabolic flexibility score— ranging from 0 to 21. The higher score, the more efficient your body is at using fat or carbs for energy based on what’s available.
While the data Lumen offers may help you understand how your metabolism works, it only benefits health and weight when combined with a balanced eating plan, regular exercise, a consistent sleep routine, and stress management. However, the data provides immediate feedback, reinforcing positive behaviors and boosting motivation.
Lumen isn’t a weight loss program, but the app modifies your nutrition plan based if you select weight loss as one of your goals. Your subscription also includes education, support, and coaching. Additionally, the mobile app integrates with Apple Health, Google Fit, and Garmin.
Pricing for Lumen includes $199 for the device and then $19 a month for access to all the features on the mobile app. Lumen is pricey, but qualifying customers may use their health savings account/flexible spending account (HSA/FSA) funds to pay for the service.
What customers are saying
More than 3,000 people have reviewed Lumen on Trustpilot, giving it high ratings. Many Lumen customers like the data and personalized nutrition plans they get with the device and app. However, some customers find the breathalyzer hard to use and dislike the return policy.
Trustpilot reviewer and Lumen user Timothy G. likes the consistency and accountability Lumen offers. “Lumen is absolutely amazing! …It really does help you keep on track and make better choices. Consistency, accountability and treating yourself well is what lumen helps you do. It also brings out a self awareness and discovery.”
Kathy B. is another verified customer using Lumen for weight loss. “Lumen has taken away the nutritional confusion I had about how to lose weight and be healthy. I find it easy to use and the support is very helpful. I lost weight in the first week and that hadn’t happened for a very long time.”
MyImac is a verified user who recieved a faulty device and was upset after learning about Lumen’s refund policy. ”I tried to use it yesterday and today it took a lot of effort and breathing in and breathing out and it’s defective …. I contacted the customer service. They said if the package didn’t open, we can return it but if it’s open, we couldn’t refund the money.”
Specs
| Yearly cost | $19 and a one-time fee of $199 for device |
| Free trial | No |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | No |
| Accountability | Coaching, community, app notifications |
| Tracking | Nutrition, metabolism |
Best sustainable weight loss program: Mayo Clinic Diet
Key product features
What you should know
The Mayo Clinic Diet was originally developed by doctors to help people lower their risk of heart disease and diabetes or lessen the impact of these conditions in people who have these diagnoses. This plan helps subscribers realign their thinking about food and exercise in a reasonable way that isn’t too strict or overwhelming.
- The Mayo Clinic Diet hits all the high notes for being a sustainable program you can safely use in the long-term.
- At $19.99 a month, the Mayo Clinic Diet is reasonable for what it provides; recipes, exercises, coaching with Mayo Clinic doctors, and accountability through a private online community are all available with the plan.
- This diet is good for people who want to focus on eating more whole foods with a variety of preferences (like Mediterranean or gluten-free options).
Why we like Mayo Clinic Diet as best sustainable
Mayo Clinic Diet teaches you how to live a lifestyle that supports a healthy weight. It’s sensible and holistic, the clear winner for best sustainable weight loss program.
Many people find weight management challenging, especially after following a restrictive weight loss program that didn’t offer lifestyle interventions or take your personal weight struggles into consideration, like health, genetics, or culture. (15) Holistic weight loss programs that take all the factors that affect your weight into consideration are essential for sustainable weight loss. (15)
Mayo Clinic Diet is an all-encompassing weight loss program. It incorporates the habits of healthy weight loss, helping you make and break habits that hone in on nutrition, exercise, and behaviors. They also have a proprietary food group system that teaches you how to make balanced meals eating real whole foods without having to count calories or macros.
The plan has three phases to maximize weight loss and promote a lifestyle that leads to long-term results. Mayo Clinic Diet phases include:
- Lose It: The first phase lasts two weeks and focuses on making and breaking habits. The Mayo diet website says you can lose 6-10 pounds during the first phase of the program.
- Live It: The second phase focuses on healthy eating, meal planning, exercising, and creating habits you can follow for life. You continue to lose weight during the Live It phase, but at a slow and steady pace of 1-2 pounds a week.
- Love It: Once you hit your target weight, you enter the Love It phase to maintain results, continuing to follow all the habits you learned during the first two phases.
Mayo Clinic Diet offers seven meal plans to fit food preferences and lifestyle, including the “original,” Mediterranean, healthy keto, and vegetarian. Mayo also has a special meal plan for people taking antiobesity medication called Protein Balance, a higher protein diet to limit muscle loss. (16)
After selecting your plan, the program allows you to customize meals so they fit your food likes and lifestyle. The digital weight loss program also provides recipes and grocery lists, and an at-home exercise plan.
Mayo Clinic Diet uses tracking tools for weight, food, exercise, and habits to help you stay accountable. Group coaching with experts from the Mayo Clinic is also part of the program,
The core Mayo Clinic Diet program costs $49.99 a month. But you can save up to 67% by paying upfront for 6 months($149.99) or 12 months ($199.99). You may be able to use HSA/FSA funds to cover the cost. They also have a Clinical Subscription program for people taking antiobesity medications that includes one-on-one visits with a doctor, prescriptions and refills, and live group coaching. The Clinical Subscription program requires a $99 start up fee plus $129.99 a month.
Mayo Clinic Diet sets the foundation for long-term weight loss, but it’s more restrictive than other weight loss programs, especially during the first phase. The diet eliminates sugar and alcohol, and only allows fruits and vegetables for snacks.
What customers are saying
Almost 1,000 people have shared their experience with the Mayo Clinic Diet on Trustpilot, giving it an excellent rating. Many consumers find the program user friendly and the recipes delicious. However, a few customers had a difficult time sticking to the plan and didn’t get enough support
“I’m so glad I found the Mayo Clinic Diet. It has worked for me above all others I’ve tried (believe me, I’ve tried a lot)! The MCD community, along with the habits, meal plans, grocery lists, eBooks, webinars, recipes, trackers are great tools and helped me succeed.”
Robyn A., verified user
Trustpilot reviewer and verified user S.G. finds the plan easy to follow and writes, “I lost weight on the Mayo Clinic Diet. I love that the app is handy on my phone at all times, the daily meals are all listed to choose from including alternative meals. They are easy to prepare and delicious.”
Verified user Charlie F. is frustrated with the digital program. “Can’t get into it. Mobile app. Is clumsy to navigate and not well adapted to everyday use, difficult interface. Can’t easily set menu items that are home made without getting complicated.”
Specs
| Monthly cost | $19.99–$49.99 |
| Free trial | Three days |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | Yes |
| Accountability | Coaching and Facebook community |
| Tracking | Yes |
Best weight loss program for seniors: Nutrisystem Complete 50
Key product features
What you should know
Nutrisystem Complete 50 offers pre-made, nutritionally balanced meals that take the guesswork out of weight loss. Here’s what you should know about the program:
- Nutrisystem Complete 50 offers nearly everything you need to kick-start your weight loss journey, including an app for tracking your meals, a meal plan, and coaching. But the pre-made meals might not have enough calories and may not be as satisfying as fresh, whole foods.
- Starting at $360 per month, the program may be more expensive than preparing your own meals. However, its convenience might be worth it for some people.
- Nutrisystem Complete 50 is best for men and women over the age of 50 who are looking for an easy-to-follow plan to kickstart weight loss and build healthier habits.
Why we like Nutrisystem Complete 50 as best for seniors
Nutrisystem Complete 50 is a dietitian-designed weight loss plan for men and women aged 50 and above. Like Diet-to-Go, Nutrisystem Complete 50 delivers ready-made meals to your doorstep. You’ll have the choice of receiving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack five to seven days a week.
Sarcopenia—the age-related decline in muscle mass, endurance, and strength—can start as early as 40 years old. (17) It is associated with a greater risk of falls and poorer quality of life. All meals on Nutrisystem Complete 50 are high in protein to help maintain lean muscle mass and functionality as you age.
Meals are also high in fiber and designed to provide more calories and carbohydrates earlier in the day, which can promote satiety and reduce the risk of weight gain. (18)
The program advertises a slow, sustainable weight loss of one to two pounds per week, in line with guidelines set forth by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (18)
The program encourages 30 minutes of daily activity and 64 ounces of water daily. You can track your water intake, exercise, weight loss, and food with NuMi, Nutrisystem’s app designed to help you stay on track. NuMi also provides daily inspiration, weight loss tips, and recipes to supplement your Nutrisystem meals.
The average diet plan provides between 1,200 and 1,500 calories per day, which may be too low for some people. For a more personalized approach, users can try NuMi SmartAdapt, which is found in the NuMi app. It sets a calorie goal based on your height, age, gender, and activity and provides meal plans that integrate with your menu.
I like that Nutrisystem Complete 50 allows flexibility. Once you complete your first week, the plan introduces “flex meals” into your diet. These are meals you cook at home or eat at a restaurant that follow Nutrisystem guidelines.
While Nutrisystem does give users access to weight loss coaches that provide motivation and answer questions about meals, they are not qualified healthcare professionals.
Check out our complete Nutrisystem review to learn more.
What customers are saying
Nutrisystem has 2,169 reviews on Trustpilot.
Customers like the program’s convenience and variety of meals offered on the plan.
“The fact that I do not have to think about a single thing in this diet plan is an incredible luxury,” verified user Sue wrote. “No meal planning or prepping or shopping or cooking!”
Negative reviews mention the food wasn’t worth the price, reporting that some meals taste overly processed and bland. Some customers weren’t aware of the $125 cancellation fee charged if you cancel after 14 days but before paying for your second shipment.
Specs
| Monthly cost | $360-$410 |
| Free trial | N/A |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | No |
| Accountability | Community, coaching, app notifications, goal setting, recipes, website |
| Tracking | Nutrition, exercise, hydration |
Most flexible weight loss plan: WeightWatchers
Key product features
What you should know
WeightWatchers encourages healthy habits by assigning points to foods, with over 200 ZeroPoints foods that don’t require tracking. Here’s what you need to know about the platform.
- WeightWatchers is one of the most flexible weight loss programs available and has research supporting its effectiveness. But having to keep track of everything you eat and drink may be too much for some people.
- WeightWatchers offers a more affordable monthly payment option (starting at $23 per month) than other weight loss programs with similar features.
- The program is good for people who have dietary restrictions or those who are on a limited income because you don’t have to buy specific foods.
Why we like WeightWatchers as most flexible
WeightWatchers is a community-based weight loss program that focuses on tracking foods and building healthy habits. Millions of people have used it to lose weight and improve their health. Membership includes personalized nutrition and fitness advice from a registered dietitian and fitness trainer and ongoing check-ins with your clinician.
Research supports WeightWatchers effectiveness in maintaining modest, long-term weight loss. (19) A 2021 WeightWatchers-funded study showed that, on average, participants lost between 6.3 and 11.6 pounds over 7 months. (20)
The program uses a flexible, points-based system to encourage healthy eating habits that promote weight loss. Each food is assigned a points value based on its calories and nutrient content, with more nutritious choices being lower in points. Over 200 foods, including chicken breast, eggs, and non-starchy vegetables, are ZeroPoints foods and do not require tracking or measuring.
You’ll have a personalized point budget based on your age, height, weight, gender, and weight loss goals. Any food can be enjoyed as long as it fits into your daily points allotment—this makes it easier to stay on track when you’re dining out.
The app allows members to track activity, food, water, and weight. Membership also includes access to on-demand workouts, recipes, educational resources, and 24/7 live coaching.
To keep things simple, the WeightWatchers app syncs with several activity trackers, including:
- Apple (Watch and Health)
- Fitbit
- Garmin
- Google Fit
- Withings
- Misfit
- MapMyRun
For additional support, WeightWatchers offers plans with unlimited in-person and virtual workshops with your WeightWatchers coach. The company also recently launched its virtual WeightWatchers Clinic, which gives eligible members access to telehealth weight loss management and board-certified clinicians who can prescribe weight loss medications.
One of our product testers tried WeightWatchers for 30 days and lost around 5 pounds. More importantly, she noticed some non-scale victories.
“I now eat more fruits and vegetables than I ever did before, and my energy levels improved,” she said. “I developed a good routine for meal prepping and having healthy meals always ready to eat. WeightWatchers also helped me better understand what portion sizes work well for me.”
What customers are saying
WeightWatchers has 122 reviews on Trustpilot.
Despite the less-than-ideal rating, many users have reported weight loss with the program. Verified user Fran found the coach-led workshops offered on the premium plan particularly helpful.
“I was given a month free and the helpful rep explained to me that they have virtual meetings,” she commented. “I decided to give the in-person meetings a try and am happy I did.”
Verified user Aimee W., who has been using WeightWatchers on and off for years, finds the program effective as long as you follow the plan. However, she warns that stopping the program can lead to weight regain.
“It works if you follow the plan and continue once you reach your goal. If you stop doing the program of course you’ll gain the weight back,” she said.
Several users have reported difficulty canceling their membership, including verified user Dave, who said WeightWatchers has been billing his credit card for three years after canceling.
However, verified user S. Duncan felt the cancellation steps to be easy to follow and had no issues canceling his wife’s membership. “My wife and I started the program. I liked it, but she didn’t. We actually READ all the emails about cancellation and followed the EASY to UNDERSTAND steps. It isn’t fine print. It’s actually spelled out clearly.”
Specs
| Monthly cost | $23 per month plus a $20 starter fee for the basic plan |
| Free trial | Yes |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | No |
| Accountability | Members-only community, 24/7 live coaching, recipes, goal setting, app notifications, website, workshops |
| Tracking | Nutrition, exercise, hydration |
Best weight loss program with coaching: Future
Key product features
What you should know
Future offers personalized workout routines and guidance from fitness professionals. While it does not include nutrition plans, some coaches may be able to help calculate your daily macronutrient needs and answer basic questions.
- Our testers found the Future app to be user-friendly and liked being able to meet with their trainer face-to-face via FaceTime. However, they were disappointed by the lack of real-time coaching during workouts, which is a feature commonly available with in-person coaching.
- Future is relatively expensive and starts at $149 per month. Still, it’s likely cheaper than what you’d pay for traditional in-person personal training.
- Future is best for people who are looking for a structured workout plan to improve their fitness without having to join a gym.
Why we like Future as best with coaching
Research shows that combining exercise with a healthy diet is more likely to result in sustainable, long-term weight loss. (21) That’s why Future is an excellent option for people seeking additional guidance in developing consistent fitness habits.
Future is a personal fitness training app that connects you with a personal trainer who creates a customized workout plan based on your goals, fitness level, and equipment.
After completing a brief survey, Future will recommend several coaches based on your answers. You’re also able to bypass the recommendations and choose your own coach.
After selecting your coach, you can schedule a FaceTime call with them to dig deeper into your history and goals. They’ll also help walk you through the setup process. Our testers liked this feature, highlighting that the additional guidance was a great way to kick things off. They were very satisfied with their coaches and liked that they could easily communicate with them through the app.
Our testers found the app–available for iPhone and Android users–to be incredibly user-friendly. They also liked that the app uses video and audio cues to guide them through each workout.
But, your coaches don’t watch you work out. They only talk to you during the workout through pre-recorded blurbs. Our tester felt this may be a problem for people who struggle with accountability.
However, we found it helpful that you can record your workouts and send them to your coach to assess your movements and offer corrections. Furthermore, our product tester appreciated how her coach was able to accommodate her workouts for vacations and injuries.
“When I hurt my back, my coach made my workouts more low-impact and was able to help me focus more on rehab,” she said.
While not required, Future highly encourages users to use a smartwatch. Pairing a compatible smartwatch with the app allows you to easily navigate through your workout by tapping a button on your watch, which our testers found super convenient.
You can pair the Future app with Apple products, Android devices, and the following watches:
- Google Pixel Watch
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and 5
- Montblanc Summit 3
While the app doesn’t include nutrition tracking or meal planning, coaches can provide high-level nutrition guidance or macronutrient recommendations based on your goals. So, if you’re looking to fine-tune your diet, you may consider pairing Future with guidance from a registered dietitian.
We were disappointed that there was no live chat option or a number to call for support. However, when I emailed customer service, I received a response within an hour.
A month-to-month Future membership costs $199, which is cheaper than hiring an in-person personal trainer. And, you can try it risk-free for the first month and get a full refund if you decide to cancel.
For more insights, check out our complete Future app review.
What customers are saying
The Future app has 99 reviews on Trustpilot.
Customers love the app’s ease of use, its coaches, and the variety of workouts offered by Future. People also like the accountability from having regular check-ins with their coach and the audio cues during the workouts.
“Future’s app is smooth, easy to use, and illustrates techniques well with video. Even as someone who has worked out for years, the trainers in the videos use impeccable form and allow you to introspect on your movement,” verified user Prateek K. commented.
Negative reviews mention not having nutritional support, and a few people felt like their workouts weren’t personalized to their fitness level.
For example, verified user Jack found the app helpful in learning the basics of strength training. However, he was disappointed that his trainer didn’t remember to personalize his plan following a minor injury.
“I’ve had a minor injury, and it took weeks for my trainer to remember to exclude exercises that would make it worse (like running and jumping), the same with some other basic requests for things I could not do,” he commented.
Specs
| Monthly cost | $199 for one month, $537 for three months, $1,014 for six months, $1,788 for 12 months |
| Free trial | N/A |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | No |
| Exercise plan | Yes |
| Accountability | Live coaching, daily check-ins, workout reminders, app notifications |
| Tracking | Exercise |
Best weight loss program for plant-based eaters: Trifecta Plant-Based Meal Plan
Key product features
What you should know
Trifecta Plant-Based meal plan may be a good fit for someone who is looking to reach their fitness goals while experimenting with or following a plant-based diet.
- While our testers didn’t try Trifecta’s Plant-Based menu, they found the portions on other plans to be relatively small. They also found the taste to be hit or miss.
- Trifecta is pricier compared to other meal delivery services, starting at around $105 for seven meals. However, it offers a comprehensive program with ready-made meals, personalized plans, tracking tools, and ongoing coaching to help you reach your fitness goals.
- This plan is best for people who are following a plant-based diet or looking for an easy way to increase their plant-based protein intake for better health and weight loss.
Why we like Trifecta Plant-Based Meal Plan as the best plant-based
Trifecta’s Plant-Based meal delivery service offers a quick and easy way to enjoy plant-based, macro-balanced meals at home. All dietitian-designed meals are ready to eat and high in protein with moderate amounts of carbs and fat.
You can choose to receive seven to 21 meals each week, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I like that you can pick your own meals from the menu or choose Chef Selected meals. But if you’re a picky eater, I recommend choosing your own meals since you can only exclude one ingredient (eggs, sesame, impossible meat, vegan chicken, whole mushrooms, tree nuts, spicy ingredients) per week.
While our product testers didn’t get to try the plant-based meals, the meals they did try had small portions. One tester found the meals to be hit or miss on taste. However, one of our team product testers, Kate Meier, enjoyed the flavor of her meals.
“I tried a few different meals, including the egg scrambles, a chicken and broccoli casserole, and a salmon dish. I liked the flavor of all of them,” she said. “I do tend to eat pretty plainly, though, so I don’t usually need a lot of spices to enjoy my food.”
All meals are free of preservatives, gluten-free, and made with organic ingredients whenever possible. They can be stored for seven days in the fridge, or you can freeze some if you don’t plan to eat them within a week.
All customers have free access to nutrition coaches by chat, e-mail, or phone. Trifecta also has a free app that allows you to create a personalized plan and track food, activity, and weight. It features a large library of educational content, workouts, and recipes to help you guide you towards healthier choices.
If you’re unsatisfied with your meals, Trifecta offers a money-back guarantee for up to seven meals on your first order.
For more insights on this brand, check out our full Trifecta meals review.
What customers are saying
Trifecta’s Plant-Based meal delivery has 47 reviews on Trustpilot.
Many customers were unhappy with the quality of meals and had trouble canceling their subscriptions.
Verified customer Evan R. also advises against the plant-based plan, citing small portion sizes. He says, “Don’t try if you’re looking to go vegan or plant-based. The meals are so small portioned (under 400 calories for entrees), they have no protein, and they’re $15/meal.”
Specs
| Monthly cost | Starts at $419.72 (excluding shipping) |
| Free trial | N/A |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | Yes |
| Accountability | Community, website, app notifications, recipes, coaching |
| Tracking | Nutrition, exercise, hydration |
Best weight loss app: Cronometer
Key product features
What you should know
Cronometer allows you to track a wide range of micronutrients to ensure you get all the essential nutrients your body needs. It also allows you to keep track of key biometrics like sleep, mood, heart rate, and blood pressure.
- Cronometer is easy to use, but all of the tracking options and lack of coaching may be confusing for someone just starting out.
- The app is budget-friendly—an annual subscription costs $55 a year—and offers more tracking options than many other calorie-tracking apps.
- Cronometer is best for someone looking for an app that provides detailed tracking of macronutrients and micronutrients.
Why we like Cronometer as the best app
Cronometer is a comprehensive health and fitness app that logs and tracks your calories, nutrient intake, and exercise. It also tracks various biometrics, including weight, sleep, mood, heart rate, and blood pressure.
After inputting your weight, height, sex, and activity level, you can choose a weight loss goal. Then, Cronometer will set your recommended daily calorie needs. Protein, fat, and carbohydrates are automatically set to a macro ratio within the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Ranges (AMDR). (22) However, they can be customized based on your individual needs and preferences.
Unlike many other nutrition apps that only log calories, protein, and fat in meals, Cronometer can track up to 84 micronutrients. This feature helps you identify nutrient gaps in your diet and encourages a healthy, balanced diet.
The free version includes all of the app’s basic features, but you’ll have to upgrade to access tools like long-term data tracking, customized health charts, and recipe sharing.
With the paid subscription, you can also dive deeper into how specific nutrients and biometrics correlate. For example, you can create a custom chart to see how your fiber intake affects the quality of your bowel movements.
The paid subscription also suggests foods to help complete unmet targets and match your daily nutrient goals without going over any limits.
The app syncs with many other apps and devices, including Apple Health, Samsung Health, Fitbit, and Garmin.
I have used the Cronometer app and found it extremely user-friendly and easy to navigate. However, all of the tracking options may be overwhelming for someone starting out.
One of our expert product testers and a certified nutrition coach agrees.
“If you’re new to tracking your food in an app, I recommended easing in slowly,” she noted. “The dashboard in Cronometer can feel pretty overwhelming. It’s best to start with the basics and then begin tracking more data as you get more familiar with the app.”
Related: The Best Weight Loss Apps
What customers are saying
Cronometer has over 57,000 ratings on the Apple App Store.
Many users love that the app syncs with their fitness tracker, has an extensive food database, and improves their diet quality by tracking important nutrients.
Verified user Michelle C. says, “Having the micronutrient breakdown is a huge bonus. The last app that I used did not have this feature, and it is so helpful to be able to visualize my vitamin and mineral consumption.”
Negative reviews mention bugs and glitches within the app and difficulty reaching customer service.
Specs
| Monthly cost | Free; $10 for premium |
| Free trial | N/A |
| Personalization | Yes |
| Nutrition plan | Yes |
| Exercise plan | Yes |
| Accountability | Community, app notifications |
| Tracking | Nutrition, exercise, sleep, mood, heart rate, and blood pressure |
Our weight loss program testing methodology
We recognize that hundreds of weight loss programs are available, many of which aren’t safe or sustainable. We also know that everybody’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for you.
To help you, our team compared dozens of weight loss programs to find the best one for your needs. All of the weight loss programs in this article were thoroughly researched and medically reviewed by industry experts. Any health claims were fact-checked to ensure they were based on trustworthy scientific evidence.
Scores were provided by our testers and a team of experts based on the following metrics:
Program design—30%
A nutrition program should match the established principles of human health and leave room for your individual needs and preferences. Our testers have been in the field long enough that they know the real thing when they see it. Here’s what they look for:
- Explanation
- Adaptability
- Sustainability
- Realistic expectations
Value—30%
The internet is packed with nutrition programs, ranging from free recipes to personalized coaching that costs thousands of dollars. We want to connect you with a plan that feels worth it from the first day you start until the day you decide to go off on your own.
Here’s what we factor into a program’s value rating:
- Fair price
- Tracking capabilities
- Tools and recipes
Extra options—20%
We give extra points to the nutrition programs that go above and beyond with bonuses like:
- Coaching and community support
- Education
- Workouts
Customer experience—20%
We want you to avoid buyer’s remorse and find a program you’ll look forward to following. Here are some of the little things that make a big difference:
- Reliable technology
- Reviews
- Customer service
- Free trial periods
FAQs
What is the highest-rated weight loss program?
We found Noom to be the highest-rated weight loss program because it focuses on long-term behavioral change and offers ongoing support from dietitians and certified health coaches.
Are weight loss programs good or bad for you?
Weight loss programs that offer ongoing support and teach healthy eating and lifestyle habits can be beneficial for long-term weight loss. However, not all weight loss programs are created equal, and there are just as many unsafe ones as there are good ones. Avoid programs that promise rapid weight loss, targeted fat loss in a certain part of the body, or make claims that seem too good to be true. Talk with your healthcare provider to determine an effective yet safe weight loss program for you.
What is the most effective weight loss treatment?
The most effective approach to weight loss involves a combination of healthful eating, exercise, and other lifestyle changes, such as stress management and adequate sleep each night.
Is there a free weight loss program?
Several apps, such as Cronometer, offer free versions that allow you to set calorie goals and track exercise and nutrition. For more support and guidance, several weight loss programs, such as Noom, Future, and Nutrisystem, offer free trials or money-back guarantees.
What should I do if I cannot lose weight?
If you’ve made diet and lifestyle changes and are still having trouble losing weight, it’s a good idea to talk with a doctor or registered dietitian. A doctor can perform a thorough evaluation, review your medications, and check for underlying health conditions that may hinder weight loss or cause weight gain. A registered dietitian can personalize your plan based on your medical history, your individual needs, and your lifestyle.
What does a commercial weight loss program typically not provide?
While some weight loss programs offer health coaching, most commercial weight loss programs do not provide ongoing coaching with a registered dietitian licensed to provide medical nutrition therapy.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Dr. Robert Wildman, PhD, RD, LD, CISSN, FISSN
Dr. Robert Wildman (“Dr. Rob”) is a globally renowned exercise, fitness, and nutrition expert who speaks around the world on exercise and sports nutrition and continues to work with professional and elite athletes to achieve their highest level of performance as well as health and fitness. Rob received his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University, earned his MS from Florida State University, and earned his BS from the University of Pittsburgh. He is also a registered and licensed dietitian. He is the author of The Nutritionist: Food, Nutrition and Optimal Health and the creator of TheNutritionDr.com.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly Uhler has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Amanda Dvorak
Amanda has been writing fitness and nutrition content for over three years. She played softball throughout her childhood and started doing CrossFit in 2015. While she still enjoys doing CrossFit workouts in her garage gym, she also loves lifting heavy weights, running, and hiking. Amanda is currently studying to become a certified personal trainer through the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA).
Lily Moe
Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.
Lindsey DeSoto, RDN, LD
Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer
About Author
Lindsey DeSoto is an experienced registered dietitian who enjoys staying up to date on the latest research and sharing her knowledge through writing. Her writing and expertise have been featured in various publications, including Verywell Health, Medical News Today, Health, and CNBC.
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