Question: How Do I Know if a Weight Loss Product's Claims are Valid?
I see so many ads for weight loss products. How do I know which ones are true?
Answer: The fact is, more often than not, they are not true. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends that consumers approach advertisements and weight loss products' claims of effectiveness with a grain of salt. The FTC warns that advertisements that promise to help you lose more weight by taking a pill, wearing a patch, or using a cream, are often misleading or false.
Before you purchase any weight loss products, talk to your doctor. Then look for advertisements that include statements like these false claims:
- "Lose weight without diet or exercise!"
- "Lose weight no matter how much you eat of your favorite foods!"
- "Lose weight permanently! Never diet again!"
- "Block the absorption of fat, carbs, or calories!"
- "Lose 30 pounds in 30 days!"
- "Everybody will lose weight!"
- "Lose weight with our miracle diet patch or cream!"
Learn More:
How to Spot False Weight Loss Product Claims
Source:
Federal Trade Commission. Weighing the Evidence in Diet Ads Nov 2004. 17 Oct 2007.
