It’s time to get diet ‘momentum’

By LISA SIMPSON STRANGE
Glasgow Daily Times

GLASGOW January 06, 2009 12:03 pm

— Quint Butler is leading by example.
She is one of three leaders for the local Weight Watchers program and has lost 42 pounds since 2005.
This year, losing weight will be easier than ever, according to Butler, because the 2009 plan is simpler, sustainable and shows people how to eat smarter.
“We’re trying to get people to set smaller goals initially,” she said.
The new plan is called “Momentum” and it has been designed by Weight Watchers to help people keep their resolutions and learn ways to achieve healthier ways to live their lives, according to Melissa Carroll, public relations assistant for Weight Watchers North America, Inc.
“The Momentum program is an entirely new way to do Weight Watchers created specifically to help people control hunger, beat temptation and maintain a healthy lifestyle,” Carroll said.
Butler said there is now one food plan for everyone that concentrates on filling foods and healthy food choices.
The new focus for participants is to create small goals, be self-accountable and receive support from the group.
Butler said approximately 35 to 40 people attend program sessions on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 9 a.m. and between 40 to 55 on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Members meet at First Christian Church at 1100 North Race St. in Glasgow.
Butler said Weight Watchers offers a free meeting so an individual can decide if the program will fit his or her lifestyle. She said they also encourage activity, but not any one set activity. Members are given the choice to be flexible in the types of exercise they do.
Weight loss is not the only benefit of the program.
Carroll noted that choosing to lose weight is a decision that can be an excellent long-term investment.
“Higher medical expenses and insurance costs may be the direct result of unhealthy lifestyle choices and can also have a negative effect in the wallet,” she added.
To learn more about Weight Watchers services, products and publications, visit www.weightwatchers.com. To find the nearest Weight Watchers meeting location, call (800) 651-6000 or click on the “Find a Meeting” link at the top of the homepage.