Choosing the Best Weight Loss Plan

In a recent report, the Federal Trade Commission warned consumers that many weight loss ads are false and misleading, containing claims not supported by medical evidence. In fact, the report noted that claims for fast and effortless weight loss could harm consumers by steering them away from safe and reliable, although slower, methods of controlling their weight.

For years, marketers have gotten away with claims that were unfounded and unsafe. Millions of people have been victimized. It’s time to give people credible information and products and lead them on a safe path to healthy weight loss.

No reasonable consumer would buy a car, or even a stereo, without comparing the merits of those available. They should be even more careful with the health of their families and themselves. Flach suggests looking for these features in choosing a weight-loss program.

1. Reasonable goals

The program should offer no more than two pounds of weight loss per week. Any claims that a plan’s users lost “18 pounds in one week!” represent results that are unusual and unhealthy.

2. Healthy food choices

Neither pills nor supplements will allow you to “eat as much as you like and lose weight!” Only by controlling caloric intake can you control weight. The plan should provide guidance in choosing the right foods in reasonable portions to achieve a healthy weight loss while maintaining energy and meeting nutritional needs. Natural Medicine Talk is a health forum which discusses natural ways of losing weight and treatment for other health illnesses.

3. Exercise component

To lose weight you must burn more calories than you take in. Regular daily exercise is necessary not only to control weight, but to help prevent heart disease, osteoporosis, and a host of other illnesses.

4. Credible sources for claims

Any endorsements should be from recognizable organizations such as major universities or the federal government. Beware of vague claims of “major national studies” or references to independent institutes that can’t be verified. Use the library or the Internet to research institutions and studies.

5. Lifestyle changes for long-term results

Supplements and pills have not been shown to provide life-long results. Only permanent changes in diet and activity level can help a person control their weight for life.

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