NutriSystem® - Help

NutriSystem® Advanced™ - Official Site -Diet Plans, Weight Loss Programs, Diet Programs, Lose Weight

F.A.Q. | Help |

1-800-321-THIN®

FAQs

PROGRAM INFORMATION
• What is the NutriSystem® program, and how does it work?
• How do I get started?
• Once my food arrives, what do I do?
• Do I have to order online?
• What is the Glycemic Index?
• Do NutriSystem foods have low glycemic, "good" carbs?
• If I have certain food allergies or special dietary needs can I still lose weight with the NutriSystem program?
• Can I still lose weight with the NutriSystem program if I have high blood pressure?
• If I have diabetes, can I still lose weight with the NutriSystem program?
• Do I have to visit a center to participate in the NutriSystem program?
• Is there an additional fee for counseling?
• What does my membership include?
• Is there a NutriSystem maintenance program?
• How many times a week should I weigh myself?

MEAL PLAN
• How do I know what to eat when?
• Do I have to eat all the food listed in the meal plan for every day?
• Do I need to eat vegetables and fruits while on the program?
• Can I eat my NutriSystem dinner at lunchtime and my NutriSystem lunch at dinnertime?
• Can I switch my afternoon snack to the morning?
• What if I cannot tolerate milk?
• What kinds of yogurt can I use for a dairy/protein serving?
• Does the milk I put on my cereal at breakfast count as my dairy/protein serving for that meal?
• How many glasses of water do I need daily?
• What is the nutritional composition of carbohydrates, protein and fat per day on the program?
• Does the NutriSystem meal plan meet USDA standards for a healthy diet?

NUTRISYSTEM FOODS
• Do I need to put my NutriSystem Advanced foods in the freezer or refrigerator?
• How should I store my NutriSystem Advanced foods?
• How do I prepare my NutriSystem Advanced foods?
• What do I do if I'm allergic to certain ingredients in food?

ORDERING
• How do I order and get started?
• Can I choose my NutriSystem foods, or do I have to buy the pre-selected 28-day Favorites Package?
• What is the "I want to select my own menu" option?
• Can I see an item before buying it?
• What is Auto-Delivery?
• Do you share any information about me with anyone?
• What's your return policy?

SHIPPING
• How long will it take to receive my order?
• How will my order be sent?

COUNSELING
• Does NutriSystem offer counseling services?
• Why should I use a counselor as part of my program?
• How do I reach a NutriSystem counselor or a NutriSystem dietitian?
• Does counseling cost extra?

alli™ and NutriSystem
• What is alli?*
• Do I need a doctor's prescription to get alli?
• Does alli have any side effects?
• Can I use alli in conjunction with the NutriSystem® program?
• Anything else I should know?

NUTRISYSTEM^® ADVANCED™

What is the NutriSystem® Advanced™ program?
The NutriSystem® Advanced™ program is an easier, healthier, and "better for you" program because it now contains omega-3 fatty acids and has more crave-busting power than ever before to help promote weight loss.

The NutriSystem Advanced program combines the breakthrough science of the NutriSystem "good carb" Glycemic Advantage™, with natural fiber to help better control hunger, and omega-3 fatty acids to help promote heart health.

Plus—each 28-Day NutriSystem Advanced order comes with a FREE Results Kit (a $50 value) featuring the following items:

Personalized Meal Planner
Mindset Makeover™ behavior modification guide created with the help of renowned weight management expert Gary Foster, Ph.D.
Exercise DVD by fitness expert Leslie Sansone, or NFL star Vaughn Hebron
Complete online account and community access guide

Altogether, it’s simply our most advanced program ever! And, to make it even easier for our customers to follow the program, the Advanced packaging is color-coded by meal occasion. It makes organizing your program and choosing your foods each day just that much easier!

What is OmegaSol™ and which entrees contain it?
OmegaSol is a unique blend of heart-healthy soluble fibers and omega-3 fatty acids that help create a feeling of fullness and promote heart health. The NutriSystem Advanced lunch entrees each contain 3 grams of OmegaSol. Please Note: Lunch entrees on the Vegetarian Program do not contain OmegaSol.

What programs does NutriSystem offer?
NutriSystem offers 7 programs:

Women’s Program
Men’s Program
Women's Silver Program
Men's Silver Program
Women's Type II Diabetic Program
Men's Type II Diabetic Program
Vegetarian Program

How many foods does the NutriSystem Advanced program feature?
The program offers more than 120 total items to choose from. (However, availability of items may vary at times due to manufacturing and inventory considerations.)

Will I be hungry on the NutriSystem Advanced program?
The addition of OmegaSol—a unique blend of hearth-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and natural soluble fiber—to our program will aid in controlling your appetite, reducing hunger, and controlling cravings in between meals. Additionally, the use of low Glycemic Index "good carbs" also aids in making that feeling of fullness last while on this plan. And, on NutriSystem, you eat often throughout the day to help keep hunger at bay and your body burning strong.

How can the NutriSystem program promote cardiovascular health?
The Advanced program is a heart healthy meal plan that is low in fat, low in saturated fats, and low in cholesterol. NutriSystem now also includes heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help promote heart health. The program also includes a NutriSystem exercise DVD. Losing weight can improve heart health as well.

What will be provided in the welcome kit?
Each 28-Day NutriSystem Advanced order comes with a FREE Results Kit, customized to the program ordered, and featuring the following items:

Personalized Meal Planner
Mindset Makeover™ behavior modification guide created with the help of renowned weight management expert Gary Foster, Ph.D.
Exercise DVD by fitness expert Leslie Sansone, or NFL star Vaughn Hebron
Complete online account and community access guide

What exercise DVDs does NutriSystem offer?
As part of the Advanced program, NutriSystem has created 3 exercise DVDs. We’ve worked with fitness expert Leslie Sansone on the creation of Women’s Walk and Silver Walk exercise DVDs. Additionally, there is a third DVD geared for men, created by former NFL pro Vaughn Hebron, called Functional Movement Workout. Each Advanced 28-Day program will come with the DVD that best complements the weight loss program ordered.

How will the Mindset Makeover™ help those on the NutriSystem plan?
The Mindset Makeover behavioral guide was created with the help of weight management expert Gary Foster, Ph.D., to help people learn new behaviors when it comes to weight loss and related lifestyle issues. Designed to complement the NutriSystem Advanced program, it is a 13-week guide through which participants work on a new skill builder each week while on the plan. Featured topics include: identifying internal vs. external hunger, managing cravings, strategies for dining out, activity and daily movement tips, dieting during the holidays, and healthy food shopping.

What is the sodium content in the NutriSystem Advanced program?
The standard NutriSystem program contains approximately 1,800 mg/daily sodium . Note: Lower sodium for some individuals may need to be less than 1800mg¿customers should contact NutriSystem Nutrition & Dietary services if they have a sodium restriction. We have formulated the Advanced program to be lower in sodium than the previous NutriSystem® Nourish® program. How much lower in sodium is dependent upon your grocery food selections.

Do the NutriSystem Advanced foods contain preservatives, MSG, sugar, sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners?
About one-third of our foods contain preservatives. These preservatives are commonly used in foods. You can customize to eliminate those food products. The NutriSystem Advanced product line is MSG-free. Our program contains a small amount of sugar. The entrees in the regular plan provide about 20 grams of sugar per day, and those in the diabetic plan provide about 18 grams per day. Sugar alcohols are ingredients used as sweeteners and bulking agents. The foods contain some sugar alcohols, such as maltitol, sorbitol and isomalt. Our foods do not contain Aspartame (brand name Equal®) or Saccharin (brand name Sweet n' Low®), but they do contain the following two artificial sweeteners:

Sucralose (brand name Splenda®)
Acesulfame K (brand name Sunett®)

Do the NutriSystem Advanced foods have trans fats?
No. All of the NutriSystem Advanced foods have "0" trans fats

Do the NutriSystem Advanced foods contain high amounts of cholesterol and fat?
NutriSystem provides heart-healthy meal plans that are low in fat, low in saturated fats, and low in cholesterol. The only foods we offer that are high in cholesterol are a few of the egg products, but these can be omitted from the program through order customization.

Is the NutriSystem Advanced program low carb?
The NutriSystem plan features "good carbs" (low glycemic), but it is not a low-carb meal plan.

Do the NutriSystem Advanced foods contain peanuts?
Yes, some NutriSystem entrees and desserts contain peanuts. If someone has a peanut allergy, whether mild or severe, they cannot be on the NutriSystem program.

Do the NutriSystem Advanced foods contain any stimulants or appetite suppressants?
No. NutriSystem foods do not contain any form of stimulants or appetite suppressants.

Do the NutriSystem Advanced foods contain any gelatin?
There are a few items that contain gelatin (derived from pork). These foods can be eliminated from a client's program through order customization.

Can a vegan be on the NutriSystem Advanced program?
None of our programs would fit the needs of a vegan diet.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

What is the NutriSystem^® program, and how does it work?
The NutriSystem program is a complete, real life solution to losing weight. The easy-to-follow plan features low Glycemic Index, "good carb" NutriSystem® Advanced™ foods with optimal amounts of protein to help keep you satisfied and your blood sugar levels stable. You eat often throughout the day, and always get perfect portions with every prepackaged entree, snack and dessert. In addition, because we know that nourishing your entire self extends beyond just what you eat, the program also includes our Mindset Makeover™ behavior modification guide created with the help of renowned weight management expert Gary Foster, Ph.D. You'll also receive an exercise DVD by fitness expert Leslie Sansone, or NFL star Vaughn Hebron. The guide and DVD are both included in your program to help get your mind and body in gear for weight loss, too. Altogether, it's a total approach to losing weight. You lose weight while learning healthy eating habits you can use for life¿all in one convenient plan.

How do I get started?
You simply choose which 28-Day program is right for you (Women's, Men's, Women's Silver, Men's Silver, Women's Type II Diabetic, Men's Type II Diabetic or Vegetarian) and then choose the foods you'd like to eat from more than 120 great-tasting, prepackaged entrees, snacks and desserts. You'll select one perfectly-portioned breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert for each day (for 28 days), or you can simply order our 28-Day "Favorites Package" featuring a pre-selected assortment of our most popular foods. Either way, everything will arrive together on your doorstep, ready for you to begin losing weight.

Once my food arrives, what do I do?
Once you place your 28-Day order, your food will arrive along with a Results Kit featuring a personalized Meal Planner. This planner outlines your daily meals and guides you on how to proceed with your program day to day. The NutriSystem plan is very easy to follow: for each meal, you just grab a NutriSystem entree, add-in a few grocery items (like fresh fruit, vegetables, salads and dairy items), and you're ready to go. You get to eat often throughout the day to help keep you feeling full between meals. And since all of our meals are perfectly portioned, there is never any weighing, measuring or calories and points to count—just great-tasting food that's ready to go when you are.

Do I have to order online?
You may order online or you may call 1-800-321-THIN® to reach a NutriSystem representative who will be happy to take your order over the phone and answer any questions you may have.

What is the Glycemic Index?
The Glycemic Index is the science behind the NutriSystem program. It measures the quality of carbohydrates and their impact on your blood sugar levels. Carbohydrates that break down slowly in your body encourage stable blood sugar levels, which is good, so they rate well or "low" on the Glycemic Index. On the other hand, carbs that break down too quickly cause your insulin levels to spike, and high insulin levels can cause your body to store fat. These "bad carbs" are given higher glycemic values and most often leave you hungry soon after a meal. So if you're looking to lose weight, you should stay away from "bad carbs" and instead, seek to incorporate more "good carbs" with low glycemic values into your diet to help keep your blood sugar levels stable and your appetite in check. NutriSystem ready-to-go foods make that simple.

Do NutriSystem foods have low glycemic, "good" carbs?
Yes! We created our line of NutriSystem Advanced foods to feature low-glycemic "good" carbs. Plus, we added optimal amounts of protein and fiber to our entrees and desserts. That makes NutriSystem the first prepared foods program that totally integrates low Glycemic Index carbohydrates into a meal plan that is also low in fat. In essence, with this program you get the best of both worlds—low fat AND good carb—a unique combination that helps support stable blood sugar levels more than ever before.

If I have certain food allergies or special dietary needs can I still lose weight with the NutriSystem program?
Yes. All of the ingredients and a nutritional breakdown of every food is listed clearly on its package and online in the NutriSystem Food Store, so you always know exactly what you're getting. Or, you can simply call one of our dietitians in Nutritional and Dietary Services to get free information and advice concerning your specific food allergy. He or she can also make food and meal plan recommendations to suit your unique situation. Call 1-800-321-THIN®

Can I still lose weight with the NutriSystem program if I have high blood pressure?
Your NutriSystem Meal Plan meets the requirements of the American Heart Association regarding daily sodium intake levels, which is less than 2300 mg of sodium per day. Additionally, overall weight loss and weight management are important to improving and controlling blood pressure. If you have questions about blood pressure and your diet, call and discuss your situation with a NutriSystem dietitian in Nutrition and Dietary Services who can explain the program and suggest options for you. Additionally, we always recommend that you consult your physician before beginning any exercise or weight loss program.

If I have diabetes, can I still lose weight with the NutriSystem program?
Yes. In fact, we created two entire Diabetic Programs specifically for women and men with Type II Diabetes. Based on the Glycemic Index and "good carbs," our Diabetic Programs feature NutriSystem Advanced entrees and snacks, along with a meal plan consisting of three meals, 2 snacks and 1 dessert each day. If you're diabetic, you're encouraged to contact one of our dietitians in Nutritional and Dietary Services who can review our Diabetic Programs and go over a sample meal plan with you. We recommend that you consult your physician before starting any weight loss or exercise program.

Do I have to visit a center to participate in the NutriSystem program?
No. The NutriSystem program is a complete at-home program. You simply order your NutriSystem Advanced foods online or over the phone, and they're delivered right to your home or office. However, if you choose to, you can always call or go online to chat with one of our weight loss counselors. In fact, we recommend this at the start of your program to make sure you get all of your questions answered and get off to a great start.

Is there an additional fee for counseling?
Not at NutriSystem. We believe in total support, and that includes providing unlimited online and phone counseling services with no fee. Say goodbye to expensive membership fees and inconvenient appointments at a weight loss center—the NutriSystem program works around your schedule and fits easily into your busy lifestyle and budget.

What does my membership include?
Believe it or not, at NutriSystem, you never pay extra for weight loss counseling or support. Once you sign up (which is free), your membership includes many added features to help make your weight loss program the most successful it can be. You get unlimited access to online tools, free counseling, weight loss classes and more:

Unlimited Counseling and Support Services
The Daily Dose Motivational Message
Online Newsletter
Online Classes
Online Bulletin Boards and Chat Rooms
Online Weight Loss and Fitness Diaries
Member Profile Section

Is there a NutriSystem maintenance program?
NutriSystem foods can be continued after you reach your goal weight to help you transition back to grocery store foods. NutriSystem foods provide convenience to help you as needed to control portions and limit calories, and to help you plan nutritious meals. There are different plans which encourage you to eat NutriSystem foods a couple of times a week while slowly introducing grocery store foods. Once you have reached your goal weight, a NutriSystem counselor will work with you to devise a plan that's right for you.

How many times a week should I weigh myself?
It is recommended that you weigh yourself once a week, preferably at the same time of day and while wearing the same type of clothing each time.

How do I know what to eat when?
When you receive your order, you'll get a NutriSystem Meal Planner. This guide outlines your meals and snacks for you, and features 28 Daily Diary pages on which you can "check off" your entrees, snacks, desserts and other fresh servings each day as you go along. You'll be eating healthy meals and snacks often throughout the day, and your Planner will be your easy-to-follow guide.

Do I have to eat all the food listed in the meal plan for every day?
We do encourage eating all the food servings listed on your meal plan. Your meal plan has been designed to give you all the essential nutrients needed for optimal nutrition as well as for sensible weight loss.

Do I need to eat vegetables and fruits while on the program?
It is strongly recommended that our members eat a variety of fruits and vegetables for optimal health. Talk with your counselor and together, you can work to find a mix of fruit and vegetables that you enjoy eating.

Can I eat my NutriSystem dinner at lunchtime and my NutriSystem lunch at dinnertime?
Yes, you can alter the times of your meals, as long as you include all the foods in your meal plan.

Can I switch my afternoon snack to the morning?
Yes, your snacks can be re-arranged to fit your schedule and your appetite. The afternoon or evening snack can be consumed in the morning—the idea is just to continually fuel your body throughout the day. You can always check with a counselor for suggestions on rearranging your meal plan.

What if I cannot tolerate milk?
You will find a list of alternatives to milk in the Meal Planner. The substitutions for milk give you the protein found in milk, but generally do not have as much calcium. You may need to add a calcium supplement to your meal plan if you are not consuming fat-free milk or yogurt daily.

What kinds of yogurt can I use for a dairy/protein serving?
We suggest fat-free light yogurt that contains approximately 100 calories, 8 grams of protein, and 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Does the milk I put on my cereal at breakfast count as my dairy/protein serving for that meal?
No, that milk is considered included with your NutriSystem breakfast entree. It does NOT count as your dairy or protein serving for that meal.

How many glasses of water do I need daily?
8, 8-oz. glasses or 64 oz. per day is a standard recommendation. However, another good guideline is to drink ½ an ounce of water for every pound of weight you carry (in other words, divide your weight in half and drink that many ounces of water per day).

What is the nutritional composition of carbohydrates, protein and fat per day on the program?
The NutriSystem meal plans provide approximately 55% of the calories from low-glycemic, "good" carbohydrates, 25% of the calories from protein, and 20% of the calories from fat.

Does the NutriSystem meal plan meet USDA standards for a healthy diet?
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released its sixth set of recommendations on eating—the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005. Your NutriSystem meal plan meets, and in many cases, exceeds the government standards for healthy eating.

In general, the NutriSystem Advanced meal plans:

Contain less than the recommended limit of sodium intake

Feature less than 5% of their calories from trans and saturated fats, which is less than half the maximum allowed in the guidelines, and have 0% trans fat

Have always stressed choosing lean, low-fat and non-fat meats like the guidelines recommend

Include the ability to get half your servings of carbohydrates in the form of whole grains and the other half from enriched or whole-wheat sources, as suggested

Recommend at least 4 ½ cups of fruits and vegetables, which is what is advised in the report

Do I need to put my NutriSystem Advanced foods in the freezer or refrigerator?
Not at all. All of the NutriSystem foods are "packaged for portability"—a convenience that is very important when you're losing weight. While many of the NutriSystem entrees look a lot like frozen entrees, they're actually sealed through a "soft canning" process (like you would tomatoes or peaches) which locks in the nutrition and great taste. That way, you get fresh-tasting foods that don't require refrigeration, and are ready to go whenever and wherever you are.

How should I store my NutriSystem Advanced foods?
When you receive your NutriSystem foods, you don't need to refrigerate or freeze them. They can be stored at room temperature in a cupboard or on the countertop. Many people also keep a stash at work or anywhere they may want to have healthy meals and snacks handy. It's a great way to stay on track with your weight loss program.

How do I prepare my NutriSystem Advanced foods?
Each NutriSystem food item has specific preparation instructions on its box or container and takes just minutes to prepare. Most of the NutriSystem foods can be prepared in the microwave or on the stovetop. Some simply require the addition of hot water, and others are ready to eat as-delivered (bars and snacks).

What do I do if I'm allergic to certain ingredients in food?
A NutriSystem counselor can help you set up a specialized plan according to your needs. You can also review the ingredients of each food item in the NutriSystem Store; click the name of the item you'd like to review and scroll down for the ingredients listed below the Nutrition Facts. In addition, our dietitians are also available for specific allergy related questions.

How do I order and get started?
For best results, we recommend that you start by ordering one of our 28-Day programs—Women's, Men's, Women's Silver, Men's Silver, Women's Type II Diabetic, Men's Type II Diabetic or Vegetarian. This will get your weight loss program well underway. Plus, if you choose the Auto-Delivery option, you'll get an instant 10% discount and also receive free shipping—it's a great value.

Can I choose my NutriSystem foods, or do I have to buy the pre-selected 28-day Favorites Package?
You can do either. No matter which program you choose (Women's Program, Men's Program, etc.) we offer a Favorites Package in that category featuring 28 days' worth of our most popular entrees, snacks and desserts. However, for those who would like to choose their own foods, you can completely customize your order and choose 28 breakfasts, lunches, dinners and desserts that suit your individual taste. Or, additionally, even if you selected a Favorites Package for your first 28-Day order, you may always choose to switch and customize any subsequent orders that you may place.

What is the "I want to select my own menu" option?
This ordering option gives you the most control over what you eat. Instead of getting a pre-selected 28-day Favorites package, with this option you get to choose every item in your order—28 breakfasts, 28 lunches, 28 dinners and 28 desserts (28 snacks are included in the Men's Program). Choose this option and you'll be taken to a full listing of meals and snacks from which you can choose the correct number to complete your program. It's the best way to make the most of your program.

Can I see an item before buying it?
Yes. You may click on the name of any item in our food list and its photo will be displayed along with all of its nutritional information.

What is Auto-Delivery?
With Auto-Delivery, you get a 10% discount off the regular 28-Day program price and FREE shipping within the Continental US. Plus, your discount increases to 15% after your third consecutive 28-Day program delivery. You are automatically charged and shipped your 28-Day order once every four weeks unless you cancel. You will be sent an e-mail reminder when your next order is shipped. You can edit or delay your Auto-Delivery order at any time, simply by calling 1-800-321-THIN® or visiting nutrisystem.com. You may cancel your Auto-Delivery order at any time by calling 1-800-321-THIN®. If you cancel prior to paying for your second consecutive 28-Day program delivery, your payment method will be charged for Continental U.S. shipping (if applicable) and the amount of any discount you received on your first 28-Day program delivery.

Do you share any information about me with anyone?
At NutriSystem, we are as protective of your privacy as you would be. NutriSystem shares information with third party intermediaries for shipping and billing purposes and with reputable third party associates of NutriSystem unless you have expressly asked us not to, the law requires it, or to protect the rights of property of NutriSystem. These companies do not retain personal information or share it with any other parties. These companies may include Cybercash, United Parcel Service, Federal Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express and others. Please click here to view our complete Privacy Policy.

What's your return policy?
Money Back Guarantee! If, after one week, you do not like the food, within 30 days of receipt of your order, simply send the remaining four weeks of food back to NutriSystem for a full refund of the purchase price, less shipping. If for any reason you wish to return a NutriSystem® Advanced™ food item, simply send the item(s) back within 30 days of your receipt of the order. Indicate the reason for your return, include the packing slip with your return, and wrap the package securely. Please call Customer Service at 1-800-321-THIN® to obtain a Return Authorization Number (RMA#), and put this number on the package. Ship to the address indicated on the label. If you do not have your packing slip, please indicate the order number on a separate piece of paper, enclose in the package and send the package to the following address: 200 Welsh Road, Horsham, PA 19044. For your protection, we recommend that you use UPS or Insured Parcel Post for shipment. Please save your shipping receipt and your tracking information until your return is processed. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call Customer Service. We'll refund any unused items (less shipping)-no questions asked! That's how confident we are that you'll be thrilled with our program!

SHIPPING

How long will it take to receive my order?
Depending on where you live, your order should arrive approximately 4 to 10 business days from when you place your order.

How will my order be sent?
NutriSystem utilizes ground shipping services by UPS and FedEx.

Does NutriSystem offer counseling services?
Weight loss is a very personal undertaking and it can have its challenges. That's why NutriSystem is proud to provide UNLIMITED counseling, with no additional charge, to help you stay on track and reach your goal.

Why should I use a counselor as part of my program?
Having the support and guidance of a trained NutriSystem counselor can help you reach your weight loss goal. Counselors can help you with everything from nutrition and meal plan information, to motivation and personal care issues.

How do I reach a NutriSystem counselor or a NutriSystem dietitian?
To access a member of the NutriSystem Counseling Team or the Nutritional and Dietary Services Team, once you're logged into the NutriSystem web site, simply click on the "Counseling" tab in the menu bar at the top of the page. You'll be taken to a page where you can begin a live chat with a NutriSystem counselor or dietitian, or get contact information to reach a counselor or dietitian via email at questions@nutrisystem.com, or by telephone at 1-800-321-THIN®.

Does counseling cost extra?
As a NutriSystem member, you get direct access to an entire team of NutriSystem nutrition and weight loss counselors and dietitians, with no additional fees. There are never any meetings to schedule, either—you just hop online, or pick up the phone, and you can get the information you need, at a time that's convenient for you. NutriSystem counselors cannot provide you with any medical advice, these questions should be directed to your personal physician.

Back to the Help Desk

alli™ and NutriSystem

What is alli?*
alli is an over-the-counter version of the prescription drug Xenical®, and is distributed by the pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline*. Orlistat is the active ingredient in alli, and each 60 mg pill, taken once with each meal, and according to the manufacturer, is designed to prevent your body from absorbing some of the fat you eat (approximately 25% of the fat calories you consume).

Do I need a doctor’s prescription to get alli?
No. alli is an over-the-counter drug. However, you should read the label carefully as you should not take alli if you are taking certain medications or have certain medical conditions. alli does have potential side effects that you should be aware of. We encourage you to consult your physician before starting the alli drug or any new medication.

Does alli have any side effects?
According to the manufacturer, while alli is safe when used as directed, there are certain digestive side effects that may result from eating meals with too much fat while using alli. These may include: oily diarrhea, rectal discharge, excess gas, and sudden loss of bowel control. Additionally, there is reduced absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins (Vitamins A, D, E, and K). Due to its risks and potential side effects, we recommend speaking with a physician first before taking the alli medication.

Can I use alli in conjunction with the NutriSystem® program?
GlaxoSmithKline recommends alli to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet, and a regular exercise program. It is important to remember that alli capsules are not intended to do all of the work for you or to replace diet and exercise.

While the NutriSystem® Advanced™ program is such a diet, meaning it is low-fat and low-calorie (as well as heart-healthy and full of low-glycemic “good carbs”), the addition of the alli fat-blocking medication is unnecessary for successful weight loss on NutriSystem. Our programs are designed to promote an average, healthy weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week.

Additionally, the NutriSystem Advanced program was created and is backed by an Advisory Council of leading weight management experts, as well as an entire team of research and program development professionals, who ensure that on NutriSystem you’re getting a healthy, well-rounded and sensible approach to weight loss. So, here at NutriSystem we do not recommend use of the drug alli in conjunction with our program simply because you don’t need it.

However, the weight loss remedies you choose are your decision. If you should choose to use alli in conjunction with the NutriSystem program, we highly recommend that you review all of the health effects of taking the drug, alli, and consult your personal physician.

Anything else I should know?
At NutriSystem, we’ve been helping people lose weight for more than 35 years. We take great pride in giving our customers a balanced and sensible approach to weight loss, to help them live healthier, happier lives.

At NutriSystem, we believe in a balanced and wholesome approach to weight loss. Our NutriSystem Advanced weight loss program is a comprehensive and holistic approach to wellness that provides all the tools necessary for successful weight loss. With heart-healthy omega-3s and natural fiber to help keep you feeling full, all of our perfectly-portioned Advanced foods and customized meal plans provide ideal nutrition for weight loss. Add in the NutriSystem Mindset Makeover™ guide, and exclusive exercise DVDs, along with FREE membership and FREE unlimited counseling, and you’ve got a complete and convenient weight loss program that’s always ready to go when you are.

That’s why, when new products arise in the market, it’s important to us that we help you sort through the details, so that when it comes to things like your health, your lifestyle, and your weight, you can make informed decisions. We are here to help! We highly recommend that you consult your personal physician before beginning this or any other weight loss product or program.

If you have any further questions about alli, we suggest you visit the website of GlaxoSmithKline, and consult your personal physician.

* alli is a trademark of GlaxoSmithKline. Xenical is a registered trademark of F. Hoffman-La Roche Ltd. NutriSystem is not associated with, nor endorses, alli, GlaxoSmithKline or F. Hoffman-La Roche Ltd.

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