But don't despair: You don't have to be loaded to shed a few pounds. Sound Money Tips, a Web site offering personal finance advice, highlights four affordable weight-loss programs:

Diet.com. This Web site has several free services for the truly thrifty, such as online chat boards, expert dieting tips and a database of more than 1,000 calorie-conscious recipes. Those willing to lay down some cash can get a six-month membership for a little over $85, which entitles you to a personality-based diet program, meal plans and personal coaching.

Dietwatch.com. You can get a three-month membership to Dietwatch.com for $38.87. Sign up for an entire year and you pay just $77. Along with diet and nutrition information, members get online support and tailored meal plans that can be customized for vegetarians or the carb-averse. The Web site also offers a course on mastering "emotional" eating.

Spark People. A free service that boasts a range of diet and fitness tools, including fitness programs, meal plans and a calorie counter. You can also build an online community to help keep your weight-loss goals in clear focus.

The Diet Smart Plan. Sign up for a six-month membership for $14.95 and you'll receive "daily strategy" e-mails for the first 90 days. The Diet Smart Plan also offers 24-hour e-mail support: Send in a question about your diet or fitness regimen and someone on staff will get back to you. The company also has an army of personal coaches, who try to make contact with each member once a week.