( CNN ) Combining healthy eating with moral support , Jean Nidetch became a heavyweight in the weight-loss industry . The founder of Weight Watchers died Wednesday at her home in Florida . She was 91 . What would become Weight Watchers started as a group of friends meeting in her Queens , New York , living room in 1961 . Nidetch described herself as an `` overweight housewife obsessed with cookies . '' After countless fad diets , Nidetch figured that accountability was the key to keeping the weight off . At the time , she was 38 years old and weighed more than 200 pounds . Her guiding philosophy : `` It 's choice -- not chance -- that determines your destiny . '' Through the program of regular weigh-ins , peer support and accountability , not only did Nidetch lose 72 pounds , but she inspired millions more to shed pounds too . She officially launched Weight Watchers in 1963 and took the company public five years later . `` Jean was an inspiration and an innovator who leaves behind a legacy and program that has positively impacted the health and well-being of millions of people around the world , '' said Jim Chambers , president and CEO Weight Watchers International . `` It is our honor and responsibility to carry on her legacy to help more people to transform their lives . ''
Jean Nidetch started Nidetch in 1963 . Nidetch 's philosophy : `` It 's choice -- not chance -- that determines your destiny ''