How do I know if Nutrisystem will affect my food allergies?
A complete list of all ingredients and nutritional details is provided on all food packages as well as online in the Nutrisystem Food Store. Just click the name of the item you’d like to review and scroll down for the ingredients listed below the Nutrition Facts. A Nutrisystem counselor can also help you set up a specialized plan according to your needs and the Nutrisystem Nutrition and Dietary Services Department is available for specific allergy related questions at 1-888-849-4686.
Can I go on the Nutrisystem program if I have high blood pressure?
Yes—with some modifications. All Nutrisystem programs comply with the USDA 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans which recommends less than 2300 mg of sodium per day for the general population. For people with high blood pressure or other risk factors for heart disease, the target is to restrict sodium to 1500 mg daily. Customized options are available through consultation with Nutrisystem Nutrition and Dietary Services to help you reach this level of sodium restriction, other nutrition targets, and your personal health goals. Remember that you should consult your physician before beginning any exercise or weight loss program.
How much sodium is in Nutrisystem foods?
The Nutrisystem program provides between 1800 and 2200 mg of sodium per day, which is below the USDA’s recommended daily intake of 2300 mg sodium or less for the general population. Actual sodium levels will vary based on which plan you choose and which grocery food items you add to your plan. Some individuals, such as those with high blood pressure, may need to limit their sodium intake to 1500 mg daily. The Nutrisystem Nutrition and Dietary Services team is available help you customize your plan to further restrict sodium at 1-888-849-4686.
Does Nutrisystem use preservatives in its foods?
Due to the type of processing methods used, preservatives are not required in most of the Nutrisystem foods. Any preservatives that are used meet FDA Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) criteria and are in many grocery store foods. Examples include BHT, potassium sorbate, calcium propionate, and sodium benzoate. If you wish to avoid preservatives, contact a Nutrisystem counselor for a specific list of foods that contain preservatives.
Do Nutrisystem foods contain MSG, sugar alcohols, or artificial sweeteners?
Nutrisystem foods do not contain Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). However, many entrees do contain ingredients that have inherent or free glutamate, such as tomatoes, meats, hydrolyzed protein, soy sauce and autolyzed yeast extract. Some Nutrisystem foods do contain sugar alcohols, including maltitol, sorbitol and isomalt, which act as sweeteners. Nutrisystem foods do not contain aspartame or saccharin, but some foods do contain sucralose and/or acesulfame K.
What is the proportion of carbohydrates, protein, and fat contained in the Nutrisystem program?
Nutrisystem meal plans provide approximately 55-60% of the calories from low-glycemic carbohydrates; 20-25% of the calories from protein; and 20-25% of the calories from fat.
What is the Glycemic Index?
The glycemic index refers to how much or how little the foods we eat affect the glucose (sugar) levels in our blood. Because carbohydrates are such a large part of our diet, the glycemic index method is used to rank different foods according to how much they increase blood glucose levels after eating. In addition to helping control weight, diets that consist of low glycemic index (low-GI) foods have been shown to reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. In contrast, high-GI diets have been shown to enhance body fat storage and cause frequent spikes in blood glucose and insulin levels—a serious risk factor for diabetes.
Can I use Nutrisystem D if I have high blood sugars or pre-diabetes?
Yes—Nutrisystem® D™ is a low fat, reduced calorie weight loss program that features low glycemic carbohydrates along with appropriate carbohydrate intake and portion control which can help you lose weight. Although the program was designed specifically for people with type 2 diabetes, losing weight may help you lower your blood sugars and reduce your risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
Are the Nutrisystem-D® foods sugar-free?
Although not sugar-free, the Nutrisystem-D® plan meets the American Diabetes Association and American Heart Association guidelines for recommended sugar intake. Monitoring your total daily carbohydrate intake as well as type of carbohydrate are the best ways to manage your blood sugars. Together with recommended grocery food items, the Nutrisystem-D® plan provides the right amount of low GI carbs each day.
Can I use Nutrisystem if I am pregnant?
No—if you are concerned about your weight during pregnancy, please consult your physician. Once your baby is born, you can use Nutrisystem to help you achieve healthy weight loss. Nursing mothers require a special meal plan and must take other precautions (see “Can I use Nutrisystem if I am breastfeeding?”).
Can I use Nutrisystem if I am breastfeeding?
In some cases, yes. Your child must be at least 6 months old and must have started eating solid foods. You should continue taking a prenatal vitamin. In order to keep your milk supply up, you’ll need more calories than the regular Women’s programs provide and must follow a special meal plan. For more details, contact Nutrisystem at 1-855-934-8729.
