4 weight loss programs on a dime

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As much as I love Marie Osmond and Valerie Bertinelli, I can't help but wonder how much easier it must be to lose weight with a little extra cash. Sure the Biggest Losers weigh in sub-20 pounds each week, but who wouldn't with personal dietitians and trainers? We common folk have to do the hard work on our own without the sponsors and fancy before and after shots. Here's a quick run-down of the most popular diets on a price-per-month basis:

» The support group-based Weight Watchers program focuses on weekly meetings and also offers an online option (although the members who attend live meetings are three times more successful). Average costs per month for the program only are about $47, depending upon your area.

» Slimfast relies on replacement shakes and supplements to aid in weight reduction. Although the nutritional program is free, replacing even one meal a day with a supplement will inch your monthly bill up to $60.

» Jenny Craig offers a comprehensive diet plan. You'll pay a whopping $16-$26 in food per day which is nearly $350 a month. The cost of food is charged in addition to a $300 initiation fee and $18 monthly program cost.

» Nutrisystem is comparable to Jenny Craig but doesn't include membership nor startup fees.

One quick crunch of monthly finances reveals how tough it is to work in program costs. Always look for a system that focuses on a lifestyle change rather than a temporary alteration in habits to lose weight. I wouldn't begin a program that isn't a permanent diet. If you plan to use replacement shakes, be ready to continue that even after your weight-loss goals are met. Also aim for support that teaches you to eat in the real world. If I never had to deal with cooking for a family or eating out, then I could easily survive in my single-portion bubble. Start as you mean to go.

There are several other options for you to choose from that aren't as costly. You'll need to muster up more discipline, though - part of the success in the big weight loss gigs listed above is they provide extensive support.

1. Lose It! iPhone app

This take-it-with-you application is super easy to follow. Input some basic information (weight, height, goals) and add what you eat throughout the day. Lose It! has a comprehensive list of calorie counts for popular brands, meats, vegetables, and dairy products. Weigh in every few days to follow your progress on a chart. For a free and ultra portable program, you can't beat it.
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2. Wii Active

Sorry, ladies, this isn't an open invitation to plunk down a couple hundred for a new game system. But if your kids have a Wii, it's time you get to enjoy it. For about $55 you can purchase Active, the next level in gaming fitness. Having navigated both the Wii Fit and Active I can firmly say as someone who likes to sweat that the Active provides a genuinely good workout. Users can customize players and track progress as well as choose from a variety of intensity levels and activities.
3. Best bets at the library

Do your research - literally! The library offers the latest books on healthy living for no charge. Women's Health Magazine recommends the following titles for a well-rounded look at diet:

» "Food Matters," by Mark Bittman focuses on eating whole foods and help the environment at the same time.

» "The Instinct Diet," by Susan B. Roberts, Ph.D. highlights five factors that keep your tummy flabby.

» "The Complete Beck Diet for Life," by Judith S. Beck Ph.D. looks at using cognitive-therapy techniques to combat that evil voice that says one more won't hurt.

» "Move a Little, Lose a Lot," by Levine and Yeager incorporates movement throughout your day rather than killer gym workouts. The small changes will add up.
4. Seminars at health clinics and hospitals

Several hospitals frequently offer free classes and seminars on diet maintenance and exercise. Taught by certified dieticians and trainers, these classes provide a basic understanding of healthy living for free. Check with your health insurance company as well - several will even cover a paid seminar for preventative health, much like the ever-popular

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