Jenny Craig vs Nutrisystem

Upon first glance, Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig seem like diet sisters, with so many traits in common that choosing between the two is as easy as flipping a coin. But dieting veterans will be quick to point out that although Jenny and Nutrisystem have a similar structure, there are several glaring discrepancies —and these discrepancies can mean the difference between weight-loss success and dieting failure.

Comparing the costs

The biggest dilemma most dieters face when considering a paid membership program is the cost. Potential Jenny Craig clients can expect to pay between $120 and $150 a week on the plan. Jenny Craig allows members to pick up their food at their local center or opt to have it shipped to their home for an additional charge.

A basic monthly Nutrisystem plan runs around $350 plus the cost of shipping, but if you’re willing to order your meals by the month, the company usually offers a discount (around $50), free shipping, or a bonus week of free food. But be warned: If you want the privilege of choosing your own meals, rather than allowing the company to select them for you, then you’re going to pay extra.

One benefit of Nutrisystem is that there’s no joining fee or ongoing membership fees. In addition, Nutrisystem clients won’t be pressured by consultants working on commission to buy special supplements, literature, or additional products.

Frozen vs. Freeze-dried

When it comes to the programs’ prepackaged food, both Jenny Craig and Nutrisystem have similar menu items. Jenny Cuisine is highly processed and packed with preservatives and salt. While this may not be off-putting to anyone with a penchant for fast food and frozen dinners, dieters with high blood pressure should take note.

Nutrisystem meals have a slight health advantage: The foods are lower in sodium, saturated fats, and incorporate whole grains and a diverse selection of foods. Unfortunately, Jenny entrées are ranked higher when it comes to taste, so dieters deciding between the two programs may have to choose between flavor and the health factor.  

Comparing the support

Another component to consider when choosing between the two is the amount of support you’re looking for. Jenny Craig memberships include weekly consultations with one-on-one meal planning and a toll free number available 24 hours a day. Nutrisystem provides basic online tools that include a food diary and weight log, but dieters craving face-to-face sessions and more specific guidance will fare better on Jenny Craig.

Which diet is most effective?

Because both Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig take a calorie-controlled approach to weight loss, your results will be similar on either plan. If you consume a set number of calories each day, it doesn’t matter whether those calories are coming from Jenny Craig lasagna or Nutrisystem lasagna.

The most effective diet for you is the one you’re able to stick with financially and emotionally. If the idea of showing up for a Jenny Craig consultation already has you dragging your feet, take a pass. And if the thought of a weight loss program that doesn’t offer up anything beyond prepackaged meals makes you nervous, don’t sign on for Nutrisystem. Both of these programs have pros and cons, but your success Jenny or Nutrisystem—or any diet—boils down to which diet is the most compatible with your personality.

The bottom line...

Jenny Craig tends to be more expensive than Nutrisystem on average, but some members view the support the program offers as a worthwhile tradeoff. With both diets, prepackaged food is the nucleus of the program. If you’re a diet do-it-yourselfer opt for Nutrisystem, but if you’re seeking guidance and support than Jenny is your best bet.