Weight Watchers Points 2017 Calculator
Calculate your daily SmartPoints based on the 2017 Weight Watchers plan. Understand how food's nutritional values translate into points.
SmartPoints Calculator (2017 Plan)
Enter the total calories per serving.
Enter the grams of saturated fat per serving.
Enter the grams of sugar per serving.
Enter the milligrams of sodium per serving.
Enter the grams of protein per serving.
Describe the serving size for context.
Your Food's SmartPoints (2017)
0
Calories Points: 0
Saturated Fat Points: 0
Sugar Points: 0
Sodium Points: 0
Protein Points: 0
SmartPoints = (Calories * 0.035) + (Saturated Fat * 1) + (Sugar * 1) – (Protein * 0.5) + Sodium * 0.0001
(Note: This is a simplified representation; actual WW calculations may have slight variations and rounding rules.)
(Note: This is a simplified representation; actual WW calculations may have slight variations and rounding rules.)
Key Assumptions:
- Serving Size: N/A
- Based on Weight Watchers 2017 SmartPoints system.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Points Contribution (2017 Formula) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 0 kcal | 0 |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g | 0 |
| Sugar | 0 g | 0 |
| Sodium | 0 mg | 0 |
| Protein | 0 g | 0 |
| Total SmartPoints | 0 |
What is the Weight Watchers Points 2017 Calculator?
The Weight Watchers Points 2017 Calculator is a specialized tool designed to help individuals estimate the "SmartPoints" value of food items according to the Weight Watchers (WW) program guidelines implemented in 2017. This system aimed to guide members towards healthier food choices by assigning points based on a food's nutritional content, specifically focusing on calories, saturated fat, sugar, and protein. The 2017 plan was an evolution from previous systems, emphasizing a more holistic approach to nutrition.
Who Should Use It:
- Current or former Weight Watchers members who followed the 2017 plan.
- Individuals interested in understanding how nutritional factors influence food's "healthiness" score.
- Anyone looking to make more informed dietary choices by considering macronutrients beyond just calories.
- Researchers or students studying dietetics and weight management programs.
Common Misconceptions:
- It's the current WW plan: The 2017 calculator is specific to that year's program. WW has updated its plans (e.g., Blue, Green, Purple; WW PersonalPoints) since then, which use different calculation methods.
- Points are arbitrary: While simplified, the points are derived from scientific understanding of how different nutrients impact health and weight management. Saturated fat and sugar generally add points, while protein subtracts them.
- Zero points means unlimited: Even zero-point foods require mindful portion control and should be part of a balanced diet.
Weight Watchers Points 2017 Calculator Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The 2017 Weight Watchers SmartPoints formula was designed to encourage consumption of foods lower in calories, saturated fat, and sugar, while promoting those higher in protein. The core idea was to make less healthy choices cost more points, guiding users towards more nutrient-dense options.
The simplified formula used in this calculator is:
SmartPoints = (Calories * 0.035) + (Saturated Fat * 1) + (Sugar * 1) - (Protein * 0.5) + (Sodium * 0.0001)
Let's break down each component:
- Calories: Foods high in calories require more energy expenditure to burn off. Each calorie contributes a small amount to the total points.
- Saturated Fat: High intake of saturated fat is linked to cardiovascular health issues. It significantly increases the points value.
- Sugar: Added sugars provide calories with little nutritional benefit and can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. It adds points.
- Protein: Protein is satiating and essential for muscle maintenance. Foods higher in protein receive a point deduction, making them more favorable.
- Sodium: While not a primary driver in the 2017 formula's point calculation for most foods, it was included as a factor, especially for processed items, reflecting broader health considerations. High sodium intake can be linked to blood pressure issues.
Variables Table:
| Variable | Meaning | Unit | Typical Range (per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | Energy content of the food. | kcal | 1 – 1000+ |
| Saturated Fat | Type of fat known to impact cholesterol levels. | grams (g) | 0 – 50+ |
| Sugar | Simple carbohydrates, often added sugars. | grams (g) | 0 – 100+ |
| Protein | Macronutrient essential for body functions and satiety. | grams (g) | 0 – 100+ |
| Sodium | Mineral often found in processed foods. | milligrams (mg) | 1 – 2000+ |
| SmartPoints | Calculated score reflecting the food's nutritional profile. | Points | 0 – 50+ |
It's important to note that Weight Watchers often applied specific rounding rules and minimum point values, which might cause slight discrepancies between this calculator and official WW tracking.
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Let's see how the Weight Watchers Points 2017 Calculator works with real food examples:
Example 1: Apple
An average apple might have the following nutritional information:
- Serving Size: 1 medium apple (approx. 180g)
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
- Sugar: 19 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
Calculation:
Points = (95 * 0.035) + (0.2 * 1) + (19 * 1) - (0.5 * 0.5) + (2 * 0.0001)
Points = 3.325 + 0.2 + 19 - 0.25 + 0.0002
Points ≈ 22.275
Result: This apple would be approximately 22 SmartPoints (likely rounded down or adjusted by WW). This highlights how even healthy foods can have points, primarily driven by their natural sugar content in this case.
Example 2: Grilled Chicken Breast
A typical serving of grilled chicken breast:
- Serving Size: 100g
- Calories: 165 kcal
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Sugar: 0 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Sodium: 74 mg
Calculation:
Points = (165 * 0.035) + (3 * 1) + (0 * 1) - (31 * 0.5) + (74 * 0.0001)
Points = 5.775 + 3 + 0 - 15.5 + 0.0074
Points ≈ -6.7176
Result: This grilled chicken breast would calculate to approximately -7 SmartPoints. Since points cannot be negative, it would likely be considered 0 SmartPoints under the 2017 plan, showcasing the benefit of high-protein foods.
How to Use This Weight Watchers Points 2017 Calculator
Using the Weight Watchers Points 2017 Calculator is straightforward:
- Gather Nutritional Information: Find the nutritional facts for the food item you want to calculate. This is usually available on the packaging, online, or through food databases.
- Enter Values: Input the Calories, Saturated Fat (in grams), Sugar (in grams), Sodium (in milligrams), and Protein (in grams) into the respective fields.
- Specify Serving Size: Enter a description of the serving size (e.g., "100g", "1 cup", "1 slice") for context. This doesn't affect the calculation but helps in understanding the result.
- Calculate: Click the "Calculate Points" button.
- Review Results: The main result will show the estimated SmartPoints for that serving. The intermediate values break down the contribution of each nutrient, and the table provides a detailed view.
- Interpret: Understand that higher points mean the food is less aligned with the 2017 WW goals (higher in sat fat, sugar, calories; lower in protein). Zero or low-point foods are generally encouraged.
- Reset: Use the "Reset" button to clear all fields and start over.
- Copy: Use the "Copy Results" button to copy the calculated points and key details for documentation or sharing.
Decision-Making Guidance: Use the calculated points to compare different food options. If choosing between two snacks, the one with fewer SmartPoints is generally the preferred choice on the 2017 plan. Remember this calculator provides an estimate based on the 2017 formula; always refer to official WW resources for precise values.
Key Factors That Affect Weight Watchers Points 2017 Results
Several factors influence the SmartPoints calculation under the 2017 plan:
- Calorie Density: Foods with more calories per gram naturally have higher point values, reflecting the energy they provide.
- Saturated Fat Content: This is a major driver of points. Foods high in saturated fat (like fatty meats, butter, full-fat dairy) will have significantly higher point values.
- Sugar Content: Added sugars and natural sugars contribute directly to the points, discouraging high-sugar items like candies, sodas, and sweetened baked goods.
- Protein Content: Protein acts as a "point reducer." Foods rich in protein (lean meats, fish, beans, tofu) become more favorable as they lower the overall point cost.
- Sodium Levels: While a smaller factor than the others, high sodium content can increase points, subtly guiding users away from heavily processed and salty foods.
- Serving Size Interpretation: The calculated points are for the specific serving size entered. A large serving of a low-point food can still add up significantly. Accurate tracking requires consistent serving size measurement.
- Rounding and Minimums: Official WW calculations often involve specific rounding rules and minimum point values (e.g., a calculated value might be rounded up to the nearest whole number or have a floor of 1 point). This calculator provides a close estimate.
- Nutrient Synergy: The formula balances these factors. A food might be high in calories but also high in protein, potentially resulting in a moderate or even zero point value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is this calculator using the latest Weight Watchers plan?
A: No, this calculator is specifically for the 2017 SmartPoints system. Weight Watchers has updated its plans multiple times since then, including the Blue, Green, Purple plans and the more recent WW PersonalPoints system, which uses a different algorithm.
Q2: Why do fruits and vegetables sometimes have points?
A: While many fruits and vegetables are low in points (especially those lower in sugar and higher in fiber/water), they still contain calories and natural sugars. The 2017 formula assigns points based on these factors, though often resulting in low values for whole produce.
Q3: Can the points be negative?
A: Yes, mathematically, the formula can yield a negative number if a food is very high in protein relative to its calories, saturated fat, and sugar. However, Weight Watchers typically assigns a minimum of 0 points to such items.
Q4: How accurate is this calculator compared to the official WW app?
A: This calculator provides a very close estimate based on the publicly known 2017 SmartPoints formula. However, official WW apps may use proprietary adjustments, rounding rules, or database values that could lead to minor differences.
Q5: What does "serving size" mean for the calculation?
A: The serving size entered is primarily for context and clarity in the results. The points are calculated based on the nutritional values provided *per that specific serving*. Ensure your nutritional data matches the serving size you input.
Q6: Does the 2017 plan still exist?
A: Weight Watchers periodically updates its program. While the 2017 SmartPoints system is no longer the primary active plan, understanding it can be useful for those who followed it or for historical comparison.
Q7: How does sodium affect points?
A: Sodium has a very small impact on the point calculation in the 2017 formula (0.0001 multiplier). It's included for completeness but is unlikely to be the primary driver of a food's point value unless other factors are very low.
Q8: Can I use this calculator for the newer WW plans?
A: No, the formulas are different. Newer plans like PersonalPoints use more personalized algorithms based on individual metabolism and preferences, and may not rely solely on these specific nutritional inputs.