Weight Watchers (WW) has recently updated its program, and a key change involves the expansion of its ZeroPoint foods list. This guide dives deep into what these changes mean for you, providing a comprehensive overview of the new ZeroPoint options and how they can impact your weight management journey.
Understanding ZeroPoint Foods
ZeroPoint foods are foods that WW considers nutrient-dense and are less likely to be overeaten. These foods don’t need to be tracked, making meal planning more flexible and potentially simpler. Let’s explore the exciting additions to the ZeroPoint roster.
New ZeroPoint Foods on Weight Watchers
WW has expanded the variety of foods that you don’t have to track. If you’re familiar with past WW plans, you’ll likely recognize some of these additions.
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Lean Meats: The update brings a broader range of lean meat options to the ZeroPoint category.
- Skinless Dark Meat Chicken and Turkey: Unlike previous plans that primarily focused on breast meat, skinless dark meat from chicken and turkey is now included. This means that ground turkey and ground chicken with 90% lean meat or higher are also ZeroPoint foods.
- Lean Ground Beef: Ground beef that is 90% lean or higher is now considered ZeroPoint.
- Lean Cuts of Beef and Steak: Many lean and trimmed cuts of beef and steak, such as trimmed NY Strip, lean flank steak, and trimmed filet mignon, are now on the ZeroPoint list.
- Lean Cuts of Pork: Lean pork chop and pork tenderloin are now ZeroPoint options.
- Potatoes: Both potatoes and sweet potatoes are now ZeroPoint foods.
- Oats: Oats join the ZeroPoint family.
Note: For WW members following the diabetic plan, potatoes and oats are NOT ZeroPoint foods.
Impact on Daily and Weekly Points Allowance
Unlike past program changes, WW appears to be maintaining existing daily and weekly points allowances. If your points have remained consistent, incorporating these new ZeroPoint foods could feel like you have extra points to allocate elsewhere, providing more flexibility in your diet.
The Points Formula Remains the Same
The algorithm for calculating points remains unchanged, utilizing calories, fiber, protein, added sugars, saturated fats, and unsaturated fats. This formula helps guide you towards nutrient-rich foods with healthy fats, fiber, and protein while minimizing added sugars and saturated fats.
Macro Tracking Enhancement
The WW app now provides detailed nutrition information, including macronutrient totals for protein, carbs, fats, fiber, and sodium. You can access this information at the bottom of your daily meals log in the app. Clicking on each category provides a breakdown by meal and food item, along with relevant guidance.
How to Import Recipes
A new feature allows you to import recipes from the web. By copying and pasting a recipe link into the WW app, the ingredients will be imported. However, it’s essential to verify and adjust the imported information, as inaccuracies can occur.
Plate Image Recognition
The WW app now features a “food scanner” that allows you to take a picture of your plate and estimate the points. Be aware that this feature is experimental and may not always be accurate.
Conclusion
The addition of lean meats, potatoes, and oats to the ZeroPoint foods list is a welcome change for many WW members. The added flexibility, coupled with the maintenance of existing points allowances, can make the program more sustainable. Remember that individual results may vary, and it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
