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Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, Celebrates Ten Years of Success With Weight Watchers(R)

Posted on: Thursday, 11 January 2007, 06:00 CST

The New Year marks Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York's, 10-year anniversary with Weight Watchers, a journey that began with a single weight-loss resolution made in 1997. Everyone who has ever tried to lose weight knows that it takes work and that maintaining weight loss is an ever-changing lifelong process.

Ten years after joining Weight Watchers, the Duchess remains a Lifetime Member, maintaining her weight-loss success through an ongoing commitment to herself and the Weight Watchers program. Like anyone, the Duchess has had her ups and downs, and in the January issue of Weight Watchers Magazine she shares her personal story about overcoming obstacles and learning how to stay on track and in control of her weight.

The Duchess offers these tips for others to keep focused on a weight loss journey:

Feed Your Body & Soul Without Food. It took the Duchess a long time to realize that much of her overeating was rooted in stress and unhappiness. She finally got control over her emotional eating habits once she learned to hit the pause button whenever she felt the urge to grab something to eat rather than deal directly with her feelings.

Say "No" to Negativity. At one point after years of yo-yo dieting the Duchess felt convinced that any attempt to lose weight would ultimately fail. Through Weight Watchers she discovered that negative thinking only breeds more negativity and virtually assures failure. Today, she focuses on what positive things she can do to stay in control -- counting on continuing her success rather than anticipating failure.

Set Healthy Examples For Loved Ones. In establishing a healthier relationship with food herself, the Duchess also became a better role model for her daughters. She firmly believes that one of the added benefits for Weight Watchers members is that they can share what they learn about healthy diet and lifestyle with their family.

Get Support. A good support network can be a positive force in life. The Duchess says she's been inspired by the commitment and upbeat attitude of other members. She encourages those who are struggling with their weight to seek out the help of a spouse, a friend, a family member or a support group.

Celebrate Accomplishments. The Duchess has said that the day she reached her goal weight was one of the proudest of her life. She believes that learning to keep her weight under control has helped her control other parts of her life, so successfully maintaining her weight is in fact something to celebrate everyday.

"Throughout my weight-loss journey, I've found my greatest motivation from those who have successfully lost weight and kept it off," says Ferguson. "Perhaps my greatest ally was my Weight Watchers leader who coached and supported me through each challenge. Now that I've maintained my weight for ten years I want to inspire others to do the same."

The Duchess reached her goal weight on Weight Watchers in December 1997. She says she owes her success to these principles for maintaining a weight-healthy lifestyle:

Make being physically active a part of everyday life

Eating a balanced diet is the best way to stay satisfied

With a hectic schedule, planning ahead for meals and exercise is key

The flexibility of the Weight Watchers program allows for splurges without guilt or feeling denied

The Duchess is living proof that Weight Watchers meticulously designed program helps make the weight loss process easier and is truly livable -- for everyone. From the choice of two broad food plans to simple suggestions that make healthy eating and exercise a way of life, Weight Watchers can be customized to fit any lifestyle.

To read more insights from the Duchess and access special behind the scenes footage and photos visit the Success Story section: Celebrating 10 years with the Duchess at www.weightwatchers.com.

About Weight Watchers International, Inc.

Weight Watchers International, Inc. is the world's leading provider of weight management services, operating globally through a network of Company-owned and franchise operations. Weight Watchers holds over 48,000 weekly meetings where members receive group support and education about healthy eating patterns, behavior modification and physical activity. WeightWatchers.com provides innovative, subscription weight management products over the Internet and is the leading Internet-based weight management provider in the world. In addition, Weight Watchers offers a wide range of products, publications and programs for those interested in weight loss and weight control.

Source: Business Wire

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