The 1:1 Diet, also known as the Cambridge Weight Plan, is a structured program that uses meal replacements alongside one-on-one support from a consultant to help with weight loss. The overall price is a combination of product costs, which vary by the 'Step' you are on, and the inclusive consultant guidance. It is important to note that unlike many subscription-based diets, the products are purchased directly from your consultant, meaning there is no standard monthly fee.
Deconstructing the 1:1 Diet Costs
The total expense of the 1:1 Diet is not a single, fixed price but rather a variable cost that depends on a few key factors. The primary components influencing the price include the quantity of meal replacement products, the specific 'Step' of the diet you are following, and how long you remain on the program. The one-on-one consultant support is included in the cost of the products, making it a key value proposition of the diet.
The Role of Your Consultant
One of the unique aspects of the 1:1 Diet is the mandatory use of a consultant. Your consultant acts as a personal coach, providing motivation and guiding you through the different stages of the plan. This personalized support is factored into the cost of the products you buy from them. The initial consultation is often free, but ongoing guidance is part of the weekly product purchase. Your consultant helps determine the appropriate 'Step' for your weight loss goals and lifestyle, which directly influences your weekly spending.
Products and Steps: The Core Expense
The bulk of your weekly spending on the 1:1 Diet will be on the meal replacement products. These products are nutritionally complete, providing all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and protein your body needs while on a very low-calorie plan.
- Meal Replacement Products: The products include shakes, soups, bars, and meals. The average price per meal is approximately £2.99.
- Diet 'Steps': The plan has several 'Steps' that vary in calorie intake, from the very low-calorie 'Sole Source' phase to a more flexible maintenance phase. The number of products you consume per day determines the total cost.
A Detailed Cost Comparison
To understand the financial implications, it's helpful to compare the costs of different stages of the diet and against a typical weekly food shop. The cost of a very low-calorie phase, which relies solely on meal replacements, will be different from the later stages where conventional food is reintroduced.
1:1 Diet Cost vs. Conventional Shopping
| Feature | 1:1 Diet (Intensive Phase) | Typical Weekly Food Shop (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly Cost | Under £63 per week | Over £77 per week |
| Price Per Meal | Approx. £2.99 | Variable, often more expensive per 'convenience meal' |
| Included Support | Yes, personal consultant included | No, requires separate expense for nutritionist |
| Food Waste | Minimal, pre-portioned products | Significant, average household wastes £4+ per week |
| Nutritional Balance | Nutritionally complete, science-backed formulas | Requires careful planning to achieve balance |
The Breakdown of Weekly Costs
Let's break down the weekly cost, focusing on an intensive, three-product-per-day plan. As mentioned, the price can vary slightly depending on your consultant and the specific products chosen.
- Average Meal Price: £2.99
- Daily Cost (3 meals): 3 x £2.99 = £8.97
- Weekly Cost (7 days): 7 x £8.97 = £62.79
This weekly figure is comparable to or less than the average UK weekly food shop, with the added benefit of included personal support. It's crucial to factor in that during the intensive phase, these meal replacements replace all other food costs.
Potential Costs and Savings
Potential Additional Costs
- Taster Pack: An optional introductory pack to sample products, costing around £9.99 for 6 items.
- Maintenance Phase: In later steps, as conventional food is reintroduced, your product purchases will decrease, but you'll need to budget for groceries.
- Consultant Variation: While the average prices are a good guide, individual consultant pricing may vary slightly.
Potential Savings
- Reduced Grocery Bill: During the early, most intensive steps, the cost of regular food is virtually eliminated, leading to significant savings on your weekly food shop.
- Less Takeaway/Restaurant Spending: The structured nature of the diet helps curb impulse spending on unhealthy and expensive convenience foods.
- No Membership Fees: The 1:1 Diet does not have subscription or joining fees; you only pay for the products you buy from your consultant.
Conclusion: Is the 1:1 Diet a good value for money?
The cost of the 1:1 Diet is often perceived as high, but a detailed analysis reveals it can be comparable to or even cheaper than a standard weekly food shop, particularly during the early, most intensive phases. The price includes not just nutritionally complete meal replacements but also the invaluable one-to-one support from a consultant, a feature that distinguishes it from many other weight loss programs. For individuals who benefit from structure and personalised guidance, the bundled cost represents a significant value proposition that can lead to effective and sustainable weight loss. Ultimately, determining if the cost is 'worth it' depends on your personal financial situation, your weight loss goals, and the value you place on having a dedicated support system.
