LA Weight Loss has been around for a while, but they have rejuvenated their advertising campaign by bringing Whoopi Goldberg on board as their new spokesperson. Promising similar weight loss results for “average” customers, LA Weight Loss is a comprehensive plan, but does it work for everyone?

What’s in it?

LA Weight Loss’s goal is to provide a complete weight loss system that you can take with you wherever you go. The plan includes a set of nutritional guidelines (similar to those used by a number of weight loss companies) that teaches you how to eat a balanced diet without sending food to your doorstep. For the basic model of the program, there is both an online version and a center-based program. Obviously your ability to use the center-based version will depend on availability.

However, the program does require you to consume 2 “lites” per day during the weight loss phase and 1 of the “lites” per day during the maintenance phase. These “lites” include soy protein in the form of bars, shakes, or soups. If you are not interested in the “lites,” you must purchase the “all food plan,” which can cause the amount of money you invest to skyrocket.

How does it work?

The overall plan combines good nutrition with an exercise plan, and the “lites” have a balance of protein meant to augment weight loss. Speaking of balance, the entire nutrition plan is based around “exchanging” your normal fatty foods for healthier choices, incorporating lower portions, leaner proteins, fruits, veggies, and limited fats and oils. However, we had a difficult time tracking down much information via the company’s website. If you are interested in LA Weight Loss, it might be a good idea to visit a center near you for more information.

Who does it work for?

If you struggle with portion control, LA Weight Loss may be right for you. One of their goals it to help you gain control of your own eating habits. Of course, you must be committed to this program for it to work. Customers who need face-to-face encouragement and support are more likely to be successful with the center-based versions, since regular weight checks are a part of the program. However, you do have access to a dietitian, meal planners, food diaries, and restaurant guides using the online program, which is especially helpful for a self-motivated dieter. Obivously LA Weight Loss has work for some people, but make sure it is the right fit for you before you invest in the program.

Are there possible side effects?

It’s also a good idea to discuss any new diet or exercise plan with your doctor before you begin. Although there are generally few risks associated with a balanced diet and exercise, you should discuss your health history with your doctor before you begin.

Are there any “bonus” features?

There doesn’t appear to be a free trial of LA Weight Loss at this time, and remember that you are also required to purchase the company’s “lites.” Depending on the type of lites you use, these can cost as much as $20-30 per week, although local centers regularly run specials on lites as well. The online version of LA Weight Loss costs around $250, but it does include a 4-week supply of lites.

The concept behind the LA Weight Loss plan is a good one – teach yourself to balance your nutritional needs and exercise regularly, and it has certainly been proven that you can lose weight. However, it is quite difficult to track down the methods the company uses without actually signing on for the program. Although there is a customer service contact available via their website, we hesitate to recommend a program with so little information available. Make sure you completely research LA Weight Loss to make sure it is right for you before investing in the program. It’s possible you can achieve the same results by signing up for a local gym membership with a personal trainer and nutritionist.