Weight loss all the rage in Algonquin these days

Before and after pictures don't always tell the full story of weight loss.

About 150 people in Algonquin and Lake in the Hills are discovering that one of the most profound ways to track lost weight is to actually see it in pounds - in the form of canned goods.

As part of Weight Watchers' Lose for Good Campaign, the company is donating a pound of food for every pound that participants lose to the St. Vincent DePaul Society, which will then distribute food to local groups.

Members say that seeing the weight loss in this fashion gives them an another boost to lose even more.

"They could actually feel the pounds lost," said Lead Volunteer Kirie Raducka, a Lake in the Hills resident. "This is very concrete and extra motivation - it's just touched hearts all over the place."

This couldn't come at a better time, as Algonquin has been in the news lately for several weight loss programs.

Julio Gomez, 40, an Algonquin resident, is now known across the country on "The Biggest Loser," a television show in which 16 obese contestants learn about exercise and healthy eating from a pair of trainers.

The person who loses the most of his or her body weight percentage is declared "The Biggest Loser," and scores a $250,000 prize.

As well, Premier Fitness Solutions in Algonquin at 1445 Merchant Drive, just started a 12-week Biggest Loser-style weight loss program that aims to get you fit in time for Christmas.

So far, the Algonquin chapter has lost a total of 550.4 pounds, which is what Weight Watchers will donate in food.

Moreover, the Algonquin chapter collected 115 pounds of food on its own during its meetings that it will also donate to the St. Vincent DePaul Society.

For every 1 million pounds lost during the campaign period nationwide, Weight Watchers will give $250,000, up to $1 million.

Members meet several times a week in Algonquin to weigh in, discuss healthy living and to support each other.

The program helps members kill two birds with one stone - not only do members lose weight, but they also help fight hunger, locally.

"You're not just doing this for yourself, you're now benefiting others," said Raducka, who has lost more than 100 pounds with Weight Watchers and is now using it to maintain healthy eating habits.

"In these tough times, people are very giving."

The six-week campaign is in its second year and ends Oct. 17, although Raducka says it isn't too late to join.

The group meets Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 7, 8:15 and 9:30 a.m.

All meetings are at Holiday Inn Express and Suites, 2595 Bunker Hill Road, in Algonquin.

For information, visit www.loseforgood.com