Mediterranean-style Med-South diet matches Weight Watchers for weight loss while boosting food quality

In a recent trial, the University of North Carolina’s Med-South program—an adaptation of the Mediterranean diet for Southern tastes—was pitted against the Weight Watchers system. Both interventions produced comparable weight loss over a two-year period, indicating no material difference in scale of pounds shed. The key distinction lay in diet quality: Med-South participants ate more whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and fish, while reducing refined carbohydrates and sugary drinks.

The study’s protocol included three counseling phases with dietitians, emphasizing gradual habit change before targeting weight goals. Weight Watchers participants attended weekly workshops and used a points-based app to monitor intake. Researchers note that improving diet quality may sustain weight loss and could be paired with medications like GLP-1 agonists or bariatric surgery for lasting results.