Weight Loss Products on the Market

Quick Facts...
Many diet products and programs offer a quick, short-term fix, but there is no "magic bullet" for weight loss.
When investigating weight loss products or programs, beware of high costs, pressure to buy special foods or pills, and fraudulent claims.

Diets
Approximately 50 million Americans go on a diet each year — yet only 5 percent keep the weight they lose off. Many trying to lose weight continually struggle to find an effective weight loss method. Unfortunately, there is no “magic-bullet”. The only proven way to lose weight and keep it off is by making permanent lifestyle changes. You must eat healthier, watch portion sizes and be active.

Weight Loss Products
Diet drink powdered formulas usually are mixed with a glass of milk and are substituted for one or more meals. Many users of these shakes report feeling constantly hungry and regain the lost weight when they give up the shakes. By relying on shakes, dieters follow artificial dieting methods and avoid learning how to work food into their lives.

Many prescription diet medicines have side effects and may not work for long-term weight loss. Over-the-counter pills containing the appetite suppressant PPA (phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride) can increase the risk of stroke. Over-the-counter pills containing ephedra may cause serious side effects, including dizziness, increased blood pressure or heart rate, chest pain, heart attack, stroke, seizure and even death. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking action to remove the use of PPA and has banned ephedra in over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements.

Commercial Weight Loss Programs
Commercial weight loss programs such as Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, NutriSystem and Diet Center usually offer a 1,000 to 1,500 calorie diet and individual or group counseling. Few participants succeed in keeping weight off long-term. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) brought action against some companies and is challenging their weight loss and maintenance claims.

Before investing in a commercial diet program, ask the company the following questions.

• How much, on average, do clients regain long-term?
• What is their maintenance and follow-up program?
• What rate of weight loss does the program aim for?
• Does the program emphasize balanced food choices and exercise?
• Are you required to buy specially formulated foods or supplements?
• What are the costs for membership, weekly fees, brand food, supplements and counseling?
• What are the credentials of those running the program?
• What are the health risks?
Check your local telephone directory for the programs available in your community. Prices may vary by location.

Last But not Least!
Be aware of how your Body Changes,Ages,and most of all DO NOT DIET WHEN SICK! Give your body time to repair its self before starting your WEIGHT LOSS/EXERCISE PROGRAM again. Also remember how much strain you put on your body while dieting or exercising it has a great impact on how you loose weight and keeping the weight off.