TIPS FOR DITCHING SUGARY STARBUCKS FOR NO ADDED SUGARS
It's almost 2021! Health and wellness resolutions are super common, but a lot of people usually burn out. In fact, a study back in 2019 found that 73% of people who set a fitness goal as a resolution give it up before they reach it.
I remember when I started my weight loss journey, the biggest thing that helped me succeed was making small changes and taking it one step at a time. It can feel overwhelming and time-consuming to go all in all at once, so I always recommend taking smaller steps so that way you can work towards the bigger picture in a way that is more sustainable and helps you actually develop healthier habits. If one of your New Year's Resolutions this year is to cut the cream and sugar in your coffee, it's totally possible to start drinking black coffee instead of some sugary Starbucks concoction. If I can do it, then so can you - but it took me a while to switch from a White Chocolate Mocha to a black cup every morning! Here are my tips for how to switch from a sugary drink that might have coffee in it to drinking black coffee and actually enjoying it. There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page! 1. Cut back on your creamer and try a nondairy milk alternative
Once I decided I wanted to try switching to black, having swapped to nut milk made it even easier because it's a bit thinner than normal creamer, so it wasn't as much of a shock to the system when I cut back on the almond milk. I recommend measuring out how much you're using so you can schedule out how much you're going to scale back by.
2. Slowly cut back on your added sweeteners
Every month or two, I challenged myself to reduce by one packet so I could get used to the change in sweetness and not have it be a total shock to my senses. This really helped me adjust since my taste buds adapted.
And, if you like using syrups, you can try Jordan's Skinny Syrups since they're sugar free. Then, you can ween off from there if you want. If you decide to stop using them once you've gone to black coffee but have leftover, they're great for baking or in protein shakes, too! 3. Start with Iced Coffee
The reason I suggest this if you're looking to make the switch to black is because of the ice. This dilutes the coffee a bit, so if you're struggling to get used to the taste of black, starting with iced before moving right into hot coffee should help!
4. Get flavored coffee
Having a black coffee to start with that is flavored is really helpful once you're at the point where you're drinking it straight black. I personally recommend Coffee Over Cardio since they have some really nice flavors. I'm a huge fan of Messy Bun and Saturdaze (chocolate donut), and their seasonal flavors like Basic AF (pumpkin spice) are awesome too. You can get a 10% off coupon with the code 10MagicallyFit at checkout!
5. Remember that you don't need to exclusively drink black coffee
I lost the bulk of my weight still drinking my coffee with either half-and-half or almond milk in it. And sometimes, I still do enjoy adding some Stevia and almond milk into my coffee. It's not an end all be all, and there are simple swaps you can do to still enjoy it how you like it without it necessarily being a sugar bomb.
I switched to black coffee because Anthony and I have a lot of (post-pandemic) international travel plans to some destinations famous for their coffee in different ways, and I wanted to be able to enjoy them how they were without them all just tasting like how I do at home. Ask yourself what your goals are and go from there - remember, it should be because you enjoy it, not because you feel like you have to. 
0 Comments
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page on my blog! If you've been in a Weight Watchers Facebook group or been on WW Connect for five minutes, you'll know that a lot of Weight Watchers members love Trader Joe's. The closest Trader Joe’s to me is about 20-30 minutes away, so usually we just shop at Publix since it’s closer. But I wanted something different, so I decided to try a bunch of Trader Joe’s foods I’ve seen all over Instagram and TikTok and see how they were for myself! I’ll include the SmartPoints and calories per serving and my rating for each item. Sunday: Thai Sweet Chili Veggie Burger and Chicken Chow MeinWe’ll start with the Thai Sweet Chili Veggie Burger since I had this for lunch on Sunday since I was too lazy to make anything. This had a really nice flavor! The Thai Sweet Chili flavoring was definitely there but not so strong that I felt it was spicy (and I am weak when it comes to heat in food, ha!). It didn’t really need any condiments because the flavor profile was really nice on its own. I had it on an Ole wrap with some lettuce and it made for a really nice wrap! It didn’t get too mushy in the microwave like other veggie burgers I’ve tried, either, which was a nice surprise. SmartPoints: 4 per patty Calories: 150 Jessica’s rating: 9/10  We had the Chicken Chow Mein for dinner - this was something I actually had fairly frequently when I started my Weight Watchers journey and wasn’t super great of a cook yet since it’s super quick and easy. It being low fat means it’s fairly low in SmartPoints. Just be sure to weigh this one when serving. The packaging says that 1/3 of the package is a serving and there are 3 servings per package, but I often find that it's more like 1/2 the package for the amount of grams listed. Score! Only thing I don't like about this is that it's usually pretty heavy on the red pepper, which I don't like. I pick mine out and give it to my husband. SmartPoints: 5 SmartPoints per serving Calories: 210 Jessica’s rating: 7/10  Monday: BBQ Chicken Teriyaki with Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry We paired the BBQ Chicken Teriyaki with the Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry for dinner Monday night and it tasted like takeout! We paired it with the riced cauliflower stir fry, which was also really good but I easily could have made it myself without the oil and saved the SmartPoint. But if you're feeling lazy, its a fantastic option. SmartPoints: 1 SmartPoint for a serving of the rice; 4 SmartPoints for 1 cup of the chicken Calories: 150 for the chicken; 75 calories for 1.5 cups of the rice Jessica’s rating: 9/10 for both  Tuesday: Jicama Wraps This was brought to my attention from Blogilates. We ended up throwing the jicama wraps on the stovetop to heat them up until they were lightly browned and softer and it made for a really nice wrap. They were small, so it was actually nice having multiple mini tacos instead of just one big one for two reasons:
SmartPoints: None! This is a Zero SmartPoint food. Calories: 30 calories for 85 g Jessica’s rating: 10/10  Wednesday: Sprouted Wheat 7-Grain Bread and Pumpkin Butter Mixing it up today with a breakfast option (since dinner is just fish and sweet potato tonight, nothing fancy)! After my workout this morning, all I wanted were eggs and toast. I tried the Organic Sprouted Wheat 7-Grain Toast that I’ve seen a lot of people say they love (2 SmartPoints and 80 calories per slice) and I can see why - this bread has a lovely texture and crunch when toasted, especially the crust. The flavor profile of this bread is pretty good on its own, too. It probably makes for a great sandwich option. I topped each slice with half a tablespoon of the seasonal Pumpkin Butter (2 SP per tbsp) and a little bit of pumpkin pie spice and you guys, this was the most decadent toast I’ve ever had. So good. Total SmartPoints: 6 (+ the eggs if you’re on myWW Green) for the combo Total calories (excluding eggs): 200 Jessica’s rating: 10/10 for both the bread and pumpkin butter 
|
|
|
York Peppermint Patties
These are my mom's favorite! You can have three minis (or three of the mini pumpkin ones!) or one full sized patty for 8 SmartPoints. One of the minis is 3 SmartPoints, and two of them is 6 SmartPoints (gotta love Weight Watchers math, am I right?) You can order them on Amazon here. |
|
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
You can have three mini Reese's for only 6 SmartPoints and 130 calories, so this is a great option for Halloween without spending all of your SmartPoints budget! Two of the Reese's Peanut Butter Pumpkins are 8 SmartPoints (170 calories), and for a normal Reese's Peanut Butter Cup you can have 1 cup for 4 SmartPoints and 2 for 7 SmartPoints. |
|
|
|
Snickers
A serving of three mini Snickers are 6 SmartPoints at 130 calories, so this makes for another great option for Weight Watchers. For reference, a full sized Snickers bar is 12 SmartPoints. You can order some Snickers Minis on Amazon here (just in time for Halloween!) |
|
Hershey Bars
One full-sized Hershey Bar is 11 SmartPoints (and 10 SmartPoints if you like them with almonds). If you get a bag of Hershey's miniature assorted chocolates to dump in your candy bucket, you can have...
|
|
|
|
M&Ms
M&Ms are a classic and luckily, come in convenient individual serving bags for Halloween. Three packages of M&Ms fun sized chocolate candies are 10 SmartPoints, and you can have one package for 3 SmartPoints. Order M&Ms Halloween candy on Amazon here. Also, is it just me, or do the minis taste better than the normal size? |
|
Skittles
Similarly to M&Ms, you can have one package of the Halloween candy portions for 3 SmartPoints or 3 packages for 10 SmartPoints. What's really fun is for Halloween you can get Skittles' Zombie Mix, which includes some rotten-flavored ones for a fun game of trick or treat. You can order Skittles Halloween candy on Amazon here. |
|
|
|
Starburst
Starburst are a great option for Halloween candy! They're only 1 SmartPoint per piece and since they're chewy, they take a while to eat - meaning its harder to overindulge on these than, say, miniature chocolates. You can order a bag of them on Amazon here to throw into your Halloween candy bowl mix. |
|
Kit Kats
There are a few varieties of Kit Kats you might have in your candy bucket this Halloween! The Kit Kat pumpkin pie miniatures are 9 SmartPoints for 4 wafers or 1 piece for 2 SmartPoints. Similarly, miniature Kit Kats are 2 SmartPoints for 1 and 9 SmartPoints for 4 wafers. |
|
|
|
Candy corn
You can have 19 pieces of Brach's classic candy corn for 8 SmartPoints. If you're weighing and measuring, 1 ounce is 5 SmartPoints, which works out to 13 Pieces. If you only want to spend 2 SmartPoints, you can have up to 6 pieces of Brach's candy corn. |
Weight Watchers friendly candy
With the rise in popularity of the keto diet (something I'm not super fond of due to how much it has you restrict, but that's a whole other conversation!), there has been a rise in popularity with sugar-free candies in chocolates. If you have a sensitive stomach, beware - a lot of these products contain sugar alcohols, which are known to cause gastrointestinal distress. They don't bother some people, but can be troublesome to others, so if you start to feel kind of gassy after eating any of these, look for anything on the nutritional label ending in -itol. A lot of "diet-friendly" sweets have sugar alcohols like erythritol (the least offensive of the bunch), malitol, sorbitol, and xylitol in them.
If you like gummies...
TrySmart Sweets! Smart Sweets sells a lot of candies that are reminiscent of the bags of candies you can get at a drugstore and touts that they don't use any sugar alcohols. One bag of their Berry Sweet Fish, Peach Rings, Sour Blast Buddies, or Gummy Bears are 3 SmartPoints. You can try them on Amazon.
TrySmart Sweets! Smart Sweets sells a lot of candies that are reminiscent of the bags of candies you can get at a drugstore and touts that they don't use any sugar alcohols. One bag of their Berry Sweet Fish, Peach Rings, Sour Blast Buddies, or Gummy Bears are 3 SmartPoints. You can try them on Amazon.
If you like chocolate...
Try Choc Zero! Choc Zero (available here on Amazon) sells a bunch of different chocolate sweets that are free of any and all sugar alcohols - thank goodness! They sell chocolate squares and peanut butter cups and they use monk fruit as a sweetener instead of anything that could cause you any tummy troubles. I've tried their chocolates and their syrups (1 tbsp is 1 SmartPoint) and absolutely love their products. You'd never know it was a keto-friendly option.
One peanut butter cup is 3 SmartPoints and one of their milk chocolate squares is 2 SmartPoints. One ounce of their keto bark is 5 SmartPoints.
Try Choc Zero! Choc Zero (available here on Amazon) sells a bunch of different chocolate sweets that are free of any and all sugar alcohols - thank goodness! They sell chocolate squares and peanut butter cups and they use monk fruit as a sweetener instead of anything that could cause you any tummy troubles. I've tried their chocolates and their syrups (1 tbsp is 1 SmartPoint) and absolutely love their products. You'd never know it was a keto-friendly option.
One peanut butter cup is 3 SmartPoints and one of their milk chocolate squares is 2 SmartPoints. One ounce of their keto bark is 5 SmartPoints.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page on my blog!
It's official - Amazon Prime Day is coming! This October 13 and 14th, Amazon Prime members can get some pretty big savings on products throughout the site. There are all sorts of deals, and I've rounded up my top 10 based on things I've used for my own weight loss journey or I've heard wonderful things about from fellow WW memnbers. And if you're not an Amazon Prime member but want to take advantage of the sales, you can try a free 30-day trial here!
They're having a few sales now, though, as we wait for Prime Day - these are subject to change, but when Prime Day comes around, you can get notifications in the app for when an item may go on sale for Prime Day. You can also look for Prime Day badges in blue on products.
They're having a few sales now, though, as we wait for Prime Day - these are subject to change, but when Prime Day comes around, you can get notifications in the app for when an item may go on sale for Prime Day. You can also look for Prime Day badges in blue on products.
A waffle maker make your protein pancakes fun
|
|
I love making Kodiak Cakes in a waffle maker, especially with fun shapes, so I can jazz it up. The one pictured specifically makes skulls, which is perfect for Halloween, but they sell a bunch of other shapes if you want something different (like pumpkins, pineapples, or hearts; or, you can get it to look just like normal waffles).
This waffle maker also acts as a panini press so you can use it for all kinds of foods, and it comes with a recipe book. |
This Puma Dash Backpack for a cute gym bag or Future travel
|
|
Whether you're looking for an upgrade to a gym bag (because we deserve things that spark joy, not just stereotypical plain gym duffles) or want something sleek and stylish (that doesn't scream tourist) when you're traveling for your next vacation, this Puma backpack is a great option. Plus, you can get the Puma logo in a bunch of different colors.
Check it out on Amazon here. |
An air-fryer to save oil and time
|
|
An air fryer is a must-have kitchen tool in my personal opinion. I love mine and use it all the time from making two-ingredient dough bagels, getting frozen fries perfectly crispy, and cooking tofu for dinner. If you're looking for a nice starter air fryer, check out this Amazon Basics 3.2 quart air fryer that's available for Prime Day.
One thing that's nice about this air fryer is the recommended times and temps for certain foods right on the machine. No guessing! |
A juicer to make it fresh yourself
|
|
I love juice but hate buying it because it's usually loaded with sugar. That's why I think a juicer is great for days you're craving something other than water but don't necessarily want to have a bunch of weird preservatives or a ton of sugar in the mix. Nothing beats fresh, right?
Check out this juicer on Amazon. It's got a high juice yield and works for all different kinds of fruits and veggies. |
Workout Leggings with pockets that actually fit your cell phone
|
|
Amazon is offering uo to 40% off of their own brands for Prime Day, so that means its the perfect time to treat yourself to some workout leggings that are great for hitting the gym or working from home in. They come in four colors, are super stretchy but still have a little bit of compression, and are high waisted. I'll take one in every color, please! Sizes run from XS-3X.
Order them here to try them yourself. You can also order these with the super trendy cross-waist (shaped like a V to help with the appearance of a more narrow waistline) here. |
A 13-piece cookware set to give your kitchen a refresh
|
|
Good cookware makes all the difference when you're cooking a lot (something I know I have done since starting Weight Watchers). Heat conductivity, nonstick quality, there are so many factors that are important so it's something I don't think you can cheap out on!
Right now, NutriChef's 13-piece set is on sale so you can get everything you might need. They're built to be safe for use for gas, electric, and induction counters, plus they have cool-touch handles. |
A Mesh Cropped workout tee to stay cool and comfy when you're working out (whether it be for at home workouts or your local gym)
|
|
This mesh tee comes in six different colors and runs in sizes XS - 3X. It's perfect for your home gym or for hitting your local gym. It's a slight crop, so it pairs really nicely with high waisted leggings and the fabric is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable with the unique all-over mesh pattern.
Try it on Amazon today! |
A loose leaf tea subscription to mix up your water intake
|
|
For Prime Day, you can save up to 60% off on subscription boxes. One I'm eyeballing is this loose leaf tea subscription box. You get four types of tea in one box, which should yield between 16 and 20 cups! Every tea is accompanied by a Tasting Notes card, providing rich detail of the tea's origins, flavor notes, and best brew method.
You can order this one on Amazon now with the Prime Day deal! |
An Echo Dot for hands-free help as you cook
|
|
Alexa is my best friend when I'm cooking dinner! Not only is an Echo Dot super helpful if you have a recipe where you need help converting measurements and your hands are full, but Alexa is compatible with Weight Watchers. You can get Wellow by WW for your Echo Dot to track your food, look up SmartPoints® values for different items, quick-add meals, look up your tracked and remaining SmartPoints® budget, and get basic plan information.
You can get one on sale for Prime Day (and Prime members get two for $39.98 - check for the coupon code on the listing). |
This ADidas cropped hoodie, since we're all living in athleisure wear these days
|
|
Fall is here, which means I'll be working from home in hoodies instead of t-shirts. This Adidas cropped hoodie will pair super nicely with some workout pants, leggings or high waisted jeans so it's super versatile and comfortable.
It's also eligible for Prime Wardrobe (another reason to sign up for Prime if you haven't already), where you can have an item shipped to you and try it on before you commit to actually buying it. Check it out in white and pink. |
Looking for something else?
Tons of deals will be popping up on October 13th and 14th, so be sure to keep an eye out on the app and sign up now for your free trial so you can be ready to go once more deals start rolling in. Let me know in the comments what you got and what you liked!
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page on my blog!
How many times have you scanned the barcode of a protein bar on the Weight Watchers app and been shocked at how many points it is? High sugar content from chocolate coating and dried fruit (which is not as good for you as whole fruit), surprisingly high fat, and chalky textures are the bane of my existence. But luckily for you, I've tried nearly every protein bar out there so you don't have to.
I never recommend replacing a meal with a protein bar (I actually advise against this), I do think that protein bars are fantastic for an on the go snack or for pre-workout fuel. So that being said, here are some of my favorite protein bars to enjoy on Weight Watchers that don't totally break your SmartPoints budget.
I never recommend replacing a meal with a protein bar (I actually advise against this), I do think that protein bars are fantastic for an on the go snack or for pre-workout fuel. So that being said, here are some of my favorite protein bars to enjoy on Weight Watchers that don't totally break your SmartPoints budget.
Built Bars
SmartPoints: 3-5
Calories: 130-180
Calories: 130-180
Built Bar is at the top of the list because they are by far the lowest SmartPoint option and also have a really wide variety of flavors. While certain flavors with nuts can range from 4-5 SmartPoints, most if not all of their 130 calorie bars are only 3 SmartPoints. Built Bar recently (late summer 2020) revamped their formula so the bars are slightly less sticky than they were before, but they still do have a similar texture. I'd describe the interior as being similar to a marshmallow.
They're also coated in dark chocolate, so that's a plus! You can shop now by clicking this link. You can also get 10% off if you use the coupon MagicallyFit. My personal favorite flavor is the Cookies and Cream, and my husband really likes the Cherry Barcia.
They're also coated in dark chocolate, so that's a plus! You can shop now by clicking this link. You can also get 10% off if you use the coupon MagicallyFit. My personal favorite flavor is the Cookies and Cream, and my husband really likes the Cherry Barcia.
Pure Protein
SmartPoints: 5
Calories: 180-200
Calories: 180-200
Pure Protein is another favorite of mine. They're not chalky, and the flavor profiles are pretty strong. They don't have as many flavors as Built, but I really like their chocolate chip and birthday cake bar flavors. These bars aren't chalky but do have a chewy texture to them (similar to the old Built Bars).
Try a variety pack now on Amazon!
Try a variety pack now on Amazon!
One Brand
SmartPoints: 5-6
Calories: 220
Calories: 220
ONE has a soft texture to its thin (yet long and wide) bar. They have a wide flavor variety, but some of the flavors can taste kind of similar to one another. However, I do really like these bars and they usually have some tasty seasonal flavors, too.
Try ONE on Amazon, and also check out their minis for an option to curb a sweet tooth. They also have some plant based options that are vegan friendly.
Try ONE on Amazon, and also check out their minis for an option to curb a sweet tooth. They also have some plant based options that are vegan friendly.
Protein One by Fiber ONe
SmartPoints: 2
Calories: 90
Calories: 90
These 90 calorie bars are pretty small, so I recommend these more so as a dessert than I do as a snack. While Built is a good dessert, too, I like to save those as pre-workout fuel and then use these if I want a bar for dessert since they're smaller and good for curbing a sweet tooth. At only 2 SmartPoints each, they remind me of the dessert bars that WW makes (but a bit more affordable and accessible).
Try them on Amazon!
*Note: price discrepancies below are due to certain selections being a single box vs. multipacks. Don't fret, it's not $35 for a box of 10! I wouldn't do that to you.
Try them on Amazon!
*Note: price discrepancies below are due to certain selections being a single box vs. multipacks. Don't fret, it's not $35 for a box of 10! I wouldn't do that to you.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page on my blog!
After being on Weight Watchers for almost five years now, I have a few go-to snacks that I love to have in the house to help me make sure I succeed. Because let's be real... sometimes, you need something other than roasted broccoli or fresh fruit. Here are some of my absolute favorites that I can't go without, many of which that you can order on Amazon!
After being on Weight Watchers for almost five years now, I have a few go-to snacks that I love to have in the house to help me make sure I succeed. Because let's be real... sometimes, you need something other than roasted broccoli or fresh fruit. Here are some of my absolute favorites that I can't go without, many of which that you can order on Amazon!
Pizzelles
|
Pizzelles are an absolute favorite of mine! Pizzelle cookies are basically like a waffle cone but in a cookie format. It's a delicious Italian treat that I love to top with fat free whipped cream for a nice dessert. It fills my sweet tooth without hurting my Smart Points budget. Two cookies is usually only around 50 calories, and if you have four of them it's only 3 SmartPoints on myWW.
Where to get them: Most grocery stores sell these, but you can also get them on Amazon Prime from Reko. They come in two flavors: chocolate or vanilla. |
Trail Mix
|
I know trail mix can be a bit of a controversial option for some since it's a bit higher in SmartPoints values. However, I absolutely adore the 365 Everyday Value brand (from Whole Foods, especially the Raspberry Beret flavor (and not just because it's a fantastic Prince reference). It's 150 calories for 1/4 cup and even though it's 5 SmartPoints on myWW, it's a super filling snack. Besides, 5 SmartPoints isn't a huge chunk of your budget if you're following the Green plan.
Where to get it: This brand specifically is at Whole Foods, which you can shop online via Amazon Prime. Get a 2-week free trial when you click here, or just get the trail mix here. |
|
Seaweed snacks
|
Nori (aka seaweed) snacks are some of my absolute favorite. The umami flavor is great, a lot of them are seasoned nicely, and they're super low in calories and SmartPoints. You can have an entire container of Annie Chun's for only 50 calories and 1 SmartPoint on myWW.
Where to get it: The international foods section of your grocery store should have these, but if you don't see it there, get a 12 pack on Amazon and your pantry should be stocked for a while! |
Tuna and Chicken packets
|
These ready to eat packets can sometimes vary in SmartPoints depending on the flavor, but are usually only 70-110 calories and pack a ton of protein. They're a great snack for on the go and also for building a quick meal if you don't feel like cooking and just want to dump it on some low calorie bread or wraps.
Where to get them: You can find these in the canned meats section of grocery stores (with canned tuna and chicken), or you can order a variety pack from Starkist on Amazon. |
|
Goldfish crackers
|
|
I love Goldfish because you can get so many crackers for only 140 calories and 4 SmartPoints on myWW! They're great for snacking on when you want to feel like you get a good deal of volume from a real cracker.
Where to get them: The cracker aisle at your local grocery store, or you can order them on Amazon. Try a 60 ounce box for sharing at home or a box of prepackaged snack packs for when you're on the go and don't have access to a digital food scale. |
Good Thins
|
Good Thins are another fantastic option for those of you who are craving crackers or chips but want to have a high volume for a low amount of SmartPoints. Depending on the variety, you can get a serving for 3-4 SmartPoints and they usually pack a great deal of flavor.
Where to get them: These are available at most grocery stores, and you can also try them when you order a variety pack on Amazon. |
|
Protein Bars
Protein bars are one of my absolute must have snacks for on-the-go. They're a lifesaver when you're out at about and need a quick boost of protein to fill you up (but also have a sweets craving) until your next meal, but also want to know exactly how many calories you're consuming and not worry about it.
Four protein bar brands you can try that I enjoy, in order of SmartPoints values:
- Built Bar (SmartPoints typically range from 3-5 per bar)
- Where to get them: On Built Bar's website. Get 10% off with coupon MagicallyFit
- Quest (SmartPoints typically range from 4-5 per bar)
- Where to get them: Most grocery stores sell them, or you can get a pack on Amazon
- Pure Protein (SmartPoints typically range from 5-6 per bar)
- Where to get them: Most grocery stores sell them, or you can get a pack on Amazon
- ONE (SmartPoints typically range from 6-7 per bar)
- Where to get them: Most grocery stores sell them, or you can get a pack on Amazon
|
|
|
|
Popcorn
Popcorn is a snack you can have a ton of for a very low amount of calories and SmartPoints. This is great for measuring out a few cups and pouring it into a huge bowl and munching on when you're having a Netflix binge watching session. I personally really like the Angie's BoomChickaPop kind. If you want to level up your popcorn but skip the butter, add some popcorn seasoning to it to help add some flavor but keep the calories low!
Where to get it: Most grocery stores, or on Amazon
Where to get it: Most grocery stores, or on Amazon
|
|
|
|
Babybel Cheese
|
|
Mini Babybel Light is only 50 calories and 1 SmartPoint per mini wheel and is a great way to get some fats in (if you're like me, you tend to not eat a lot of foods that are high in fat because so many "healthier" things try to cut back on them).
Where to get them: Most grocery stores, or you can order a pack on Amazon |
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt has been a staple of mine since I started losing weight. Specifically, my favorite is the 80 calorie (2 SmartPoints) Dannon Light & Fit Greek variety. But if you're on myWW Purple or Blue, plain nonfat Greek yogurt is Zero SmartPoints! Add a Zero SP flavoring like Jordan's Skinny Syrups to it for a great 0 SP snack.
Want to make your own yogurt? If you havean InstantPot, check if it has a yogurt setting and then get some ideas from the Instant Pot Yogurt Recipes cookbook!
Want to make your own yogurt? If you havean InstantPot, check if it has a yogurt setting and then get some ideas from the Instant Pot Yogurt Recipes cookbook!
|
|
|
|
If you don't have an Amazon account but want to try out some of these snacks, you can get a 30 day free trial of Amazon Prime when you get started through this link -- this includes unlimited 2-day shipping for free, plus access to all of the Amazon Prime shows and the ability to borrow Kindle books.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page on my blog!
​
After being on Weight Watchers for five years, one question I see or hear a lot is about protein shakes. While I don't recommend replacing any of your meals with a shake, I do think a protein shake is a fantastic snack, especially if you're on the go or need something quick after a workout (especially if you're strength training). I've tried a bunch of different protein shakes, and it's complicated on Weight Watchers because so many of them can be tons of points. Here are my top five protein shakes that are low in calories and SmartPoints.
​
After being on Weight Watchers for five years, one question I see or hear a lot is about protein shakes. While I don't recommend replacing any of your meals with a shake, I do think a protein shake is a fantastic snack, especially if you're on the go or need something quick after a workout (especially if you're strength training). I've tried a bunch of different protein shakes, and it's complicated on Weight Watchers because so many of them can be tons of points. Here are my top five protein shakes that are low in calories and SmartPoints.
|
|
|
5. Tera's Whey
|
I love using Tera's Whey Bourbon Vanilla flavor as a base for making matcha "milkshakes" with protein shake: 1 tsp matcha powder, 2 scoops of Tera's Whey for 2 SmartPoints and 110 calories, and a bunch of ice. The vanilla is lightly sweet, so other flavors get to be the star here if you're not having your protein shakes by themselves. The dark chocolate flavor is also a tasty option, especially if you're looking for a chocolate protein shake that isn't milk chocolate. Tera's Whey is one of (but not the most) the less expensive options, too - protein powder isn't cheap! - so it's great if you're new to protein shakes.
|
|
4. Premier Protein
|
|
Premier Protein (specifically their cartons) is a fan-favorite protein shake of Weight Watchers members, and for good reason - it mixes in super nicely with your coffee, especially for iced coffee, and is great for making DIY Diet Starbucks drinks. One shake is only 2 SmartPoints and 160 calories. Another reason they make my list? Premier offers a ton of different flavors outside of the standard chocolate and vanilla. You can try them all in a variety pack.
|
3. Protein Milkshake
|
Protein Milkshake is the lowest SmartPoints option on the list - it's only 1 SmartPoints for 29 grams, and is 110 calories per serving. Protein Milkshake is great to use for milkshakes and for baking - I made a mug cake out of it and it was a delicious option for a diet-friendly dessert.
​The flavor profile of the Cupcake Batter flavor truly is that of cupcake batter, so if you have a sweet tooth, I definitely recommend this one! |
|
2. Muscle Milk 100 Calorie
|
|
Muscle Milk's 100 calorie line comes in cartons and in a container of protein powder. The powder doesn't clump which is great, and the cartons are a good option for on-the-go or for adding to coffee for "proffee" in lieu of coffee creamer. The 100 calorie varieties are are 2 SmartPoints per serving, super affordable and available in most grocery stores, so it's easy to add to your rotation.
|
|
1. Biotrust Low Carb
|
|
BioTrust’s Low Carb protein powder has a really smooth taste and blends well regardless of the consistency you’re going for. I have no problem getting it to almost feel like a milkshake when I put it in a blender with some ice, and if I just put it in a shaker bottle, it doesn’t tend to clump. The vanilla flavor is a great base for adding fruit and chocolate flavor is pretty rich without being too sweet, so it's my winner at only 3 SmartPoints and 150 calories for two scoops.
BioTrust's founder wrote the book Always Eat After 7 PM - you can follow along on my experience with the diet here. |
Bonus: Urby Modern Creamer, smooth vanilla
|
While Urby isn't a protein shake, it is a coffee creamer. This is a fantastic way to add a little bit of protein to your coffee without using up all of your protein powder (after all, "proffee" is a popular way to replace creamer on Weight Watchers). Urby is 1 SmartPoint and 40 calories per scoop and is plenty to make your coffee nice and creamy. The vanilla flavor is a nice touch - subtle, but still there, so it doesn't disrupt any flavored coffee but rather enhances.
|
|
Need a tumbler for your protein shake or proffee? Healthy Human's all about sustainability, so you get a nice stainless steel bottle that will keep your drink the temp you like it for hours. Plus, they offer reusable straws to help keep the environment and your coffee draw de-cluttered. Get 15% off when you shop through this link or use the coupon JessicaS15.
I was almost selected to be in a WW commercial, so I’m here to tell you what that all entailed in case you're curious! I’ve been a member of Weight Watchers since December 2015, when they just launched the Beyond the Scale program, and have been a Lifetime member for a few years now. I've lost a grand total of 73 lbs.
I really want to share this process with you guys about how this all worked so you can get a little sneak peek behind the scenes and, in case you’re ever in this position, know what to expect. I ultimately wasn’t selected - and I’m not bitter or anything, so this isn’t being written out of animosity! - but still wanted to let you all get a chance to know what’s behind the curtain.
I really want to share this process with you guys about how this all worked so you can get a little sneak peek behind the scenes and, in case you’re ever in this position, know what to expect. I ultimately wasn’t selected - and I’m not bitter or anything, so this isn’t being written out of animosity! - but still wanted to let you all get a chance to know what’s behind the curtain.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page on my blog!
It all started with an Instagram Story. I check Stories every so often on Instagram, and as I scrolled through the one for WW, I saw them call out for people to submit their stories online for a chance to be a part of their Spring 2020 marketing materials. I wrote up my success story and sent it along with a before and after of myself, as requested. I explained in depth how I started Weight Watchers in December 2015 after I graduated college and didn’t want to share any of my graduation photos with anyone, and how my mom and I were actually returning to Weight Watchers after we lost weight on it when I was in high school a few years prior. We knew it was a plan that worked for us, so we figured it would work again so long as we worked it.
I was then sent an email from the Weight Watchers team asking for a video of me answering some of their questions a few days later. They asked me a lot of the same questions that were covered in the initial submission, but I had no problem re-answering them so they could have everything handy or however they needed it for the process. I was told that if I was selected to interview, I would be compensated for my time at that second stage.
I was then sent an email from the Weight Watchers team asking for a video of me answering some of their questions a few days later. They asked me a lot of the same questions that were covered in the initial submission, but I had no problem re-answering them so they could have everything handy or however they needed it for the process. I was told that if I was selected to interview, I would be compensated for my time at that second stage.
Every time they’d tell me I’d hear back from them by a certain day, they’d be very late in this process. I think this was partly because the selection phase was really close to the day they wanted to film - I was interviewing for a commercial that would air in about two weeks. Honestly, I’m not sure if the commercial’s filming ever happened or not due to COVID-19 since this was all happening in early March, but I guess time will tell if we see some spring marketing materials pop up!
Anyways, after a few days where I’d anxiously await a promised email, I finally was told I was moving forward to the interview stage. A Zoom conference call was set up with me and a few of the people with the production company, since WW uses an agency rather than an in-house team, and no one from WW was on the call. The questions they asked me were really redundant in the sense that I had answered these twice now. So if you ever apply, just be prepared to share your story a lot and to repeat yourself.
No one brought up anything about the aforementioned payment. I didn’t bother to ask in the interview to not seem rude, and the interview only lasted about 10 minutes. They told me they loved my story and were pretty into it, but after a few days (again, much longer of a wait time than promised), I was told by the WW employees who initially reached out that they were going in a different direction so I was not selected. My guess is that it’s because I’m a Lifetime member who is not trying to lose a ton of weight and already has - they were really focused on how much weight people lost on myWW since it rolled out in November, and I’ve been maintaining.
No one brought up anything about the aforementioned payment. I didn’t bother to ask in the interview to not seem rude, and the interview only lasted about 10 minutes. They told me they loved my story and were pretty into it, but after a few days (again, much longer of a wait time than promised), I was told by the WW employees who initially reached out that they were going in a different direction so I was not selected. My guess is that it’s because I’m a Lifetime member who is not trying to lose a ton of weight and already has - they were really focused on how much weight people lost on myWW since it rolled out in November, and I’ve been maintaining.
I politely asked WW about the payment I was promised, and had to follow up with them after a week of no responses. It was then they then told me that it was only for those who were selected for the commercial (as you can see in the provided screenshot, that wasn’t what they told me). After replying with their previous emails to me copied and pasted, they eventually agreed to give me the promised compensation… and that was a process, too. Whoever was in charge of this shoot didn’t seem to really have their ducks in a row. They sent me all these tax forms with things that didn’t apply, directed me to the wrong people to ask for help (and they got seemingly frustrated when I’d reach out to the people they directed me to with questions), and then eventually just gave up and verified my address to send me a check. I got $50, which I didn’t necessarily care about but felt like on principle they should honor what they originally told me.
All in all, the experience felt pretty disjointed and unorganized. It was stressful not because I was anxious about being selected or not, but because everything was really rushed and all over the place, and communication on their end could have (and should have) been handled way better. I wish I had someone to tell me what I could expect before this process, so I hope now that you can be prepared in case you see a similar Instagram story to the one I did!
Search
Author
Jessica is a huge Disney and Star Wars nerd who channeled that love into motivation to lose 75 lbs.
Categories
All
Activity
Dining Reviews
Disney At Home
DIY
Food
Product Reviews
Race Reviews
Recipes
Things To Do
Vacation Tips
Weight Loss Tips
Weight Watchers
Archives
November 2020
October 2020
September 2020
August 2020
July 2020
June 2020
May 2020
April 2020
February 2020
January 2020
December 2019
November 2019
October 2019
September 2019
August 2019
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
January 2019
July 2018
April 2018
March 2018
February 2018
RSS Feed
