The other method of doing Weight Watchers is the online version. Unfortunately -and as mentioned previously- the weekly fee at the meetings does not cover any of the fees on the online version. This is one of the major, albeit few, complaints of the system.
On the online version of Weight Watchers, you will get nearly the same information as in the regular meetings, but also various extras. You'll have lots of tips to go through each week, and you'll receive them, as well as hundreds of recipes each week. You'll get an online weight tracker that you can chart your progress with, and you'll also have access to a restaurant Points guide, menus, hundreds of recipes and an excellent message board.
You do not need to join the online version if you are attending weekly Weight Watchers meetings, but if you want to enhance the weekly meeting, the eTools are indeed a great addition!

You have two ways to eat on Weight Watchers. The most popular type is Flex. On Flex, you'll have an assigned amount of 'points' to eat each day. All foods have a point value. You can calculate this value with a formula that consists of the calories, fat and fiber. When you join Weight Watchers, you'll be given a handy 'slider' that will quickly calculate anything that you eat based on these three properties. Basically, the lower calorie, low fat - high fiber foods will get you the most bang for your buck. But, nothing is taboo on Weight Watchers, so that means if you want a hot fudge sundae, you just have to budget it in to your day.

The other method of eating is the Core Plan. Weight Watchers developed this plan after the popular 'good carb' plans came on the market. On Core, you won't be counting anything. Instead, you'll get a list of approved foods, and you'll be able to eat these foods unlimited. On this plan, you'll be able to eat lots of lean meats, fruits, veggies and whole grains. You're not going to eat white rice, yogurt with added sugar, white bread, white potatoes, or other similar foods.

Whether you choose Flex or Core, you will be given an additional points worth of food each week to splurge with. For Flex, this will be for any food you want to add in to your daily points. If you are on Core, you can use this to 'purchase' non-core foods, like white flour, sugar, or other refined carbs. On either plan, the choice is yours to use it all in one day, or split it up.

[Continue to part three of the Weight Watchers review - including sample menus!]