Frequently Asked Questions

PROGRAM

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?
How were the Nutrisystem® foods developed?
If I have certain food allergies or special dietary needs can I still reduce weight with the Nutrisystem® program?
If I have type 2 diabetes and need to lose weight, can I still reduce weight with the Nutrisystem® program?
Do I have to visit a centre to participate in the Nutrisystem® program?
Is there an additional fee for counselling?
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?

NUTRISYSTEM® FOODS

Do I need to put my Nutrisystem® Advanced™ foods in the freezer or refrigerator?
How should I store my Nutrisystem® foods?
How do I prepare my Nutrisystem® 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 Favourite Package?
What is the "I want to select my own menu" option?
Can I see an item before buying it?
Can I change my mind about an item once I've chosen it, and remove it from my cart?
What is Auto-Delivery?
What if I don't like the food when I first order?
Do you share any information about me with anyone?

SHIPPING

How long will it take to receive my order?
How will my orderbe sent?

COUNSELLING

Does Nutrisystem® offer counselling services?
Why should I use a counsellor as part of my program?
How do I reach a Nutrisystem® counsellor or a Nutrisystem® dietician?
Does counselling cost extra?



PROGRAM

What is the Nutrisystem® Advanced™ program, and how does it work?

The Nutrisystem® program is a complete, real life solution to reducing weight. The easy-to-follow plan features foods with optimal amounts of protein to help keep you satisfied. You eat often throughout the day, and always get properly portioned prepackaged entreés, snacks and desserts. In addition, because we know that your entire self extends beyond just what you eat, the program also includes two breakthrough plans - MindAdvanced® and BodyAdvanced® - to help get your mind and body in gear for weight reduction, too. Altogether, it's a total approach to reducing weight. You reduce weight while learning healthy eating habits you can use for life-all in one convenient plan.

How do I get started?

This program gives you a great way to reduce weight and transform your body. You simply choose which 28-Day program is right for you (Women's, Men's, Women's Silver, Men's Silver, or type 2 diabetic) and then choose the foods you'd like to eat from a wide variety of great-tasting, prepackaged entreés, snacks and desserts. You'll select one pre-portioned breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert for each day (for 28 days), or you can simply order our 28-Day "Favourites Package" featuring a pre-selected assortment of our most popular foods. Either way, our foods will arrive together on your doorstep, ready for you to begin reducing weight.

Once my food arrives, what do I do?

Once you place your 28-Day order, your food will arrive along with a Welcome Kit featuring a chequebook-sized 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® entreé, 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 foods are properly 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, via this website, or you may call 1-877-253-6512 to reach a Nutrisystem® representative who will be happy to take your order over the phone and answer any questions you may have.

How were the Nutrisystem® foods developed?

We created our line of Nutrisystem® Advanced™ foods to help minimize food cravings while you reduce your weight. Plus, we added optimal amounts of protein and fibre to our entreés and desserts. In essence, with our program you get the best of both worlds -- portion controlled foods, many of which are low fat and low calorie, that help you feel full while you reduce your weight.

If I have certain food allergies or special dietary needs can I still reduce weight with the Nutrisystem® program?

Yes. All of the ingredients and a nutritional breakdown of every food are listed clearly on its package, so you always know exactly what you're getting. Or, you can simply call one of our dieticians 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.

If I have type 2 diabetes and need to lose weight, can I still reduce weight with the Nutrisystem® program?

Yes. The program is a great weight loss solution suitable for those with type 2 diabetes who want to lose weight. The Nutrisystem|D™ program features select Nutrisystem® entrées and snacks, along with a meal plan consisting of three meals, two snacks and one dessert each day. If you're diabetic, you're encouraged to contact one of our dieticians in Nutritional and Dietary Services who can review our Program and go over a sample meal plan with you. We also recommend using the tools in your welcome kit to track your weight loss and combining exercise to help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Do I have to visit a centre 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. You participate from the privacy of your home, with no centre visits or public weigh-ins necessary-ever. However, if you choose to, you can always call or go online to chat with one of our counsellors. 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 counselling?

Not at Nutrisystem®. We believe in total support, and that includes providing unlimited online and phone counselling services with no fee. Say goodbye to expensive membership fees and inconvenient appointments at a weight loss centre! 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 reduction counselling or support. Once you sign up (which is free), your membership includes many added features to help make your weight reduction program the most successful it can be. You get unlimited access to online tools, free counselling and more:

  • Unlimited Counselling and Support Services
  • Nutrisystem® Advanced™ Catalogue
  • The Daily Dose Motivational Message
  • Member Profile Section

It's all part of the complete Nutrisystem® program and your means to looking and feeling your best.

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® counsellor 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.


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MEAL PLAN

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 entreés, 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 reduction.

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 counsellor 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 counsellor 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 entreé. 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 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® Advanced™ meal plans provide approximately 55% of the calories from carbohydrates, 25% of the calories from protein, and 20% of the calories from fat.


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NUTRISYSTEM® FOODS

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® entreés look a lot like frozen entreés, 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® 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 reduction program.

How do I prepare my Nutrisystem® 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® counsellor 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 dieticians are also available for specific allergy related questions.


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ORDERING

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, Mens's Silver or type 2 diabetic. This will get your weight reduction program well underway. Plus, if you choose the Auto-Delivery option, you'll save money 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 Favourites Package?

You can do either. No matter which program you choose (Women's Program, Men's Program, etc.) we offer a Favourites Package in that category featuring 28 day's worth of our most popular entreés, 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 Favourites 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 Favourites package, with this option you get to choose every item in your order-28 breakfasts, 28 lunches, 28 dinners and 28 desserts. 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.

Can I change my mind about an item once I've chosen it, and remove it from my cart?

Yes. Even if you've marked an item to be put into your cart, you can always change your mind and remove that item from your cart.

What is Auto-Delivery?

With Auto-Delivery, you get a discount prior to taxes off the 28-Day price, FREE shipping within Canada when you remain on Auto-Delivery program for at least 2 consecutive shipments and one FREE week of food with your first order and one FREE week of food with your second order. If you delay the second shipment for more then 30 days or cancel prior being charged for the second delivery, your payment method will automatically be charged for shipping and the amount of any discount you received on your first delivery. You are automatically charged and shipped your 28-Days order once every four weeks unless you call to cancel. We will send you an e-mail reminder when your next order is to be shipped. You can edit, customize or delay your Auto-Delivery order, simply by calling 1-877-253-6512. To cancel your Auto-Delivery order before your next program delivery has shipped, call 1-877-253-6512.

What if I don't like the food when I first order?

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. Indicate the reason for your return, include the packing slip with your return, and wrap the package securely. Please call Customer Service at 1-877-253-6512 to obtain a Return Authorization Number (RMA#), and put this number on the package. We'll refund any unused items (less shipping)-no questions asked! That's how confident we are that you'll be thrilled with your results on our program.

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 only. These companies do no retain personal information or share it with any other parties. These companies include Cybercash, Purolator, United Parcel Service, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Please click here to view our complete Privacy Policy.


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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.


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COUNSELLING

Does Nutrisystem® offer counselling services?

Weight reduction is a very personal undertaking and it can have its challenges. That's why Nutrisystem® is proud to provide UNLIMITED counselling, with no additional charge, to help you stay on track and reach your goal.

Why should I use a counsellor as part of my program?

Having the support and guidance of a trained Nutrisystem® counsellor can help you reach your weight reduction goal. Counsellors can help you with everything from nutrition and meal plan information, to motivation and personal care issues.

How do I reach a Nutrisystem® counsellor or a Nutrisystem® dietician?

To access a member of the Nutrisystem® Counselling Team or the Nutritional and Dietary Services Team, once you're logged into the Nutrisystem® web site, simply click on the "Counselling" 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® counsellor or dietician, or get contact information to reach a counsellor or dietician via email at questions@nutrisystem.com, or by telephone at 1-877-253-6512.

Does counselling cost extra?

As a Nutrisystem® member, you get direct access to an entire team of Nutrisystem® nutrition and weight reduction counsellors and dieticians, 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® counsellors cannot provide you with any medical advice, these questions should be directed to your personal physician.


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1-877-253-6512

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