Don’t Fall for Diet Scams

Published on by Megan Lum
Image courtesy of https://www.flickr.com/photos/alancleaver
Image courtesy of https://www.flickr.com/photos/alancleaver

Did you make a New Year’s resolution? Are you making progress?

One of the most popular and common resolutions is to lose weight. Experts say the best way to lose weight is simply to eat fewer calories and increase your physical activity. But everywhere you look, ads promise quick and easy weight loss without diet or exercise! That sounds tempting, but unfortunately, these claims are almost always false.

Here are 7 empty promises to watch out for. And remember, check with your doctor before starting any diet or weight loss program.

“Lose weight without diet or exercise!”
Achieving a healthy weight takes work. You simply cannot get results without effort.

“Lose weight no matter what you eat!”
Losing weight requires sensible food choices. Filling up on healthy vegetables and fruits can make it easier to say no to fattening sweets and snacks.

“Lose weight permanently! Never diet again!”
Permanent weight loss requires permanent lifestyle changes.

“Block the absorption of fat, carbs or calories!”
There’s no magic pill that will do this. The key to curbing your craving for those “downfall foods” is portion control.

“Lose 30 pounds in 30 days!”
Losing weight at the rate of a pound or two a week is the most effective way to take it off and keep it off. Products promising rapid weight loss are false and can harm your health.

“Everybody will lose weight!”
Your habits and health concerns are unique. Your health care provider can help you design a personalized nutrition and exercise program suited to your lifestyle and metabolism.

“Lose weight with our miracle diet patch or cream!”
There’s nothing you can wear or apply to your skin that will cause you to lose weight.