Chances are, at least once a week (or even a few times a day), you spot a diet ad promising miraculous weight loss results. Sometimes it seems legitimate, but most times, you’re (rightfully) at least a little suspicious.
When evaluating claims for weight loss product and weight loss plans, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends a healthy portion of skepticism; most don’t come close to fulfilling their claims.
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And, in the rare case that you do lose weight, it is almost never a permanent solution and is usually unsafe.
So,before you drop a single dime on anything making “fast and easy” claims, use the below checklist to help you better evaluate if it’s right for you:
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“Lose 20 pounds by tomorrow!”
Products and plans that claim lightning-fast weight loss results don’t
exist. A weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week is the safest and most
effective way to take off weight…and keep it off.
“Scientifically Proven! Doctor-Approved!”
Where is this proof? How was the research conducted? Who was studied?
Were five subjects in the study or 5,000? Has the research been
published in a medical journal and reviewed by peers? What is this
doctor’s specialization? Do they actually exist? Be sure to check the
details and talk to your doctor before trying anything.
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“It’s so easy to lose weight without dieting or exercising!”
Sorry, but permanent weight loss takes work, effort and time. Pass on any product or plan that promises miraculous results without the effort.
“Lose weight forever…you’ll never need to diet again!”
For weight loss to be permanent, it requires lifestyle changes. On-going maintenance is always a must.
“Eat whatever you want and still lose weight!”
Losing weight (that you’d like to remain lost) requires a balance of sensible food choices, not overloading on only high-fat foods, high calorie foods, sugar-free foods, low-calorie foods, only one type of food, etc.
“Money-back guarantee!”
Knowing you’ll get reimbursed if a product doesn’t work makes you feel
more secure about buying it, doesn’t it? Well, that’s the idea. But it’s
very important to realize that many companies do not follow through
with this promise, leaving you minus some money…but plus the weight
you wanted to lose.
“Block the digestion and absorption of fat, carbs, or calories! 100% safe!”
Little pills to curb cravings, burn fat, block digestion, make calories magically disappear from your stomach, etc., etc., etc. do not exist. There is no magic potion. The majority of these over-the-counter “miracles” are scams with no supporting scientific research, and are generally just a waste of money. Worse, they can be harmful to your health – before taking any weight loss pills, be sure to consult with your doctor and do your homework.
“Finally, a weight loss formula for everyone!”
A diet that claims to be perfect for you, your family, your friends, your neighbors and your coworkers really is too good to be true. One-size-fits-all diets can’t work? Why? Because your lifestyle habits, your health concerns, and your body are all unique.
“Don’t Believe Us?? Just Listen To/Watch These Inspirational Testimonials!!”
Guess what? Just about anyone can look 10 pounds slimmer. Really, just stand up straight, pull your shoulders back, suck in your tummy, style your hair wel, put on some makeup and hire a professional photographer. Voila! There’s also this little concept called “paid actors”…
If You Spot A Diet Scam…
The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit www.ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).
