I wanted to provide a little perspective on the Nutri-System diet plan, because it seems as if there are a lot of “sponsored reviews” on the web, and thought I would describe my experience to those who may be considering the plan. I am not affiliated in any way with Nutri-System, except as an occasional customer.  

Nutri-System is an online based diet plan in which you purchase shelf-stable prepackaged breakfasts, lunches and dinners from the company. They also offer online and telephone support, and have a pretty informative web site. Every four weeks you order 28 breakfasts, 28 lunches, 28 dinner entrees, and 28 desserts. You can either choose their “favorites” bundle or select your own meals from a long list of options. You then add fresh veg, dairy, and other basic staples in measured quantities to provide a balanced diet. There are specific plans for women, men, over 60s, etc.  

First, the food. Some is fairly good for prepackaged, some leaves something to be desired. I have generally been impressed by the dinner entrees, which compare pretty well to the Lean Cuisines et al. Their pastas are generally pretty good in my opinion, though I am not Italian and they are definitely not al dente. I don’t eat beef, which makes the options for dinners and lunches somewhat shorter, but there is still enough variety to satisfy me.  

I am disappointed with the hot breakfast options.h Te egg dishes at breakfast are powered and come in ramen-noodle like cups. You add water and microwave. They are not dreadful, but I prefer the cereal and bar options over the hot entrees. Lunches typically come in microwavable cups—things like soup, chili, and the like. Desserts are often in bar form, though they also offer pudding and cake mix. Not bad, though I am not a big dessert person, and would rather have a little more entrée.  

They talk about a “good carb” approach that allows certain carbs that have a minimal impact on blood sugar. I am no nutritionist, but there seems to be a lot of sugar in some of the items – not sure how this jibes with the good carb concept, but I don’t sweat it.  

Portions are small (surprise! It’s a diet after all) but with the add-ons and things like unlimited quantities of certain vegetables and salad greens, you make it through the day without feeling too deprived. I would definitely say DON’T try to eat just the prepackaged stuff. You won’t be getting complete nutrition. Make sure you add in appropriate amounts of fruit and veg and other items as they are outlined in the plan.  

Costs are about $75 a week for food, not inconsiderable but a decent value in my opinion. Add ons cost me about $25 a week, so it works about to be about $14 a day.  

I like Nutri-System.