Trying To Lose Weight? Be Aware Of Weight Loss Scams
The holidays have come and gone. Maybe you’re trying to detox from all the food and alcohol at parties. Or you’re trying to get healthier, lose a couple of pounds,…
The holidays have come and gone. Maybe you're trying to detox from all the food and alcohol at parties. Or you're trying to get healthier, lose a couple of pounds, or even aiming for a major transformation. Lots of New Year's resolutions focus on weight loss and exercise. Many people are searching for new diets, workout plans, gyms, etc which means there are plenty of people trying to take advantage of your goals. Weight loss scams are everywhere and can be difficult to pick out for some people.
But don't worry, we've got you covered with what to look for when beginning your journey. And the biggest thing to keep in mind (which can apply to pretty much anything in life too)? If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. The Better Business Bureau released a New Years Guide with some tips to help you avoid getting taken advantage of. Read their tips and more below.
Tips To Avoid Weight Loss Scams
Research The Company
Before you give a company, especially one found online, research the company with BBB.org & BBB Scam Tracker before purchasing anything. Read reviews online as well and ask your friends and family if they have heard of or used the company beforehand.
Check A Product’s Ingredients With The FDA
Be suspicious of taking any pills, supplements, powders, or herbs. They could contain products that have been recalled for containing ingredients with potentially dangerous effects. Check the list of public notifications from the FDA regarding potentially harmful weight loss products. Get more info on substances to avoid here.
Don't Consume Anything With A Lack Of Ingredients Listed
If they don't tell you what's in it, they don't want you to know what's in it.
Be wary of advertisements and customer endorsements that claim to produce“miracle” results or immediate weight loss. A red flag should always be a ‘secret ingredient’ or ‘breakthrough formula’ that claims weight loss instantly. These things do not exist. And if they did you would not be hearing about it from an infomercial. Also, keep in mind that the typical weight loss from a product or program is often significantly less than the testimonial shown in the advertisement. These are the outliers and not what you should expect.
Look For The Fine Print On
If you have to put in your credit card info it's not actually free. You could get locked into a hard to cancel expensive subscription trap.
Consult With A Physician
Your doctor can tell you if a product or routine is safe for you, they can also help you select something that can give you the best results for your health and body type. There are some highly specialized weight loss methods that can be done under the direct supervision of doctors are well. Before starting any long-term or restrictive plan it's best to discuss with a physician.
Be Hesitant About Cleanses
Your body is 100% capable of cleansing itself. Companies will try to sell you things to reset or cleanse but this is not necessary and the results are unsustainable. You may drop water weight but the minute you start eating again or go off of them it will come back.
Choose Sustainability Over Speed
Small lifestyle changes and substitutes produce drastically better and more long-term results than fad diets, restrictive eating, and crazy workout plans. Make choices that you can do for the rest of your life and the results will come. Remember the tortoise and the hair? Slow and steady wins the race. There is no point in dropping 20 pounds if you gain it back two months later.
