Online diet programs can make weight loss an easier process than more traditional weight loss programs, because they offer a variety of useful extra features, such as regular updates, online support, and various tools, such as applications that generate meal plans and shopping lists. However, there are a large number of online diets to choose from, so it can be hard to know where to begin. It’s true that no single diet plan will work well for everyone, but the good ones will at least meet the following criteria:

Focus on Health

Many diets, both online and off, lure people in with promises of fast weight loss, but these are often dangerously unbalanced. Many extreme low carb, low calorie and low fat diets fall into this category, as do those plans based around just eating one type of food. These fad diets are also usually so difficult to stick to that any weight you do lose will be regained before long. You should give plans like this a miss, and instead opt for a healthy diet that allows a wide range of foods, allows for some ‘treats’, doesn’t exclude any of the major food groups, and doesn’t expect you to under-eat. A sensible weight loss plan will also stress the importance of exercise, which is essential for lifelong health. Forget about ‘going on a diet’, and instead opt for a program that you can live with over the long term, and that doesn’t put your health at risk.

Updates

Web-based diet programs have an advantage in that they’re often more up to date than those you’ll find in books, as it’s much easier to update a website, or publish a new edition of an ebook. The best online diet plans are updated as often as necessary, and ideally you should receive free access to these updates after you’ve paid the initial fee for the program.

Guarantee

Reputable online weight loss plans come with a money back guarantee for a trial period. This way you have the chance to read through the materials and see if the diet is a good fit for you. Despite what many diet book authors would have you believe, no eating plan will work well for everyone – people have different lifestyles, metabolisms and personal preferences – and to lose weight permanently, you must find a plan that you’ll be happy to stick with over the long term. Reputable authors are aware of this and provide a guarantee in case the plan isn’t suitable for you.

Support

Online weight loss programs frequently include support that you wouldn’t usually get when buying a physical book. Most at least include a contact form so you can get a personal response to any queries or concerns that you might have, and some also offer a forum or some other kind of virtual ‘meeting area’ for customers. Avoid any online program that doesn’t provide contact information.

Extras

A great advantage of online diet plans is that they often come with various bonus features in addition to the main ebook itself. These might include a diet generator, which will give you a

menu based on your favourite foods, making meal planning very easy. Some diet generator applications even provide a shopping list of your selections which you can print out. Some online plans also include tools to keep track of things like your exercise routine, calorie intake (if you’re counting calories), nutrient intake and other aspects of your regime. You might also get some bonus materials such as recipe books. So when choosing an online diet program, make sure you check out the extras as well, as they can add a lot of value to your purchase.

Bear these key points in mind when evaluating online diet plans, and you’ll avoid the scams and more easily find the ideal program for you.