Weight Loss Claims

Claims for diet products and programs that promise weight loss without effort usually don’t work. Before you spend money on products or programs that promise fast or easy weight loss, watch out for claims like these:

• “Scientific Breakthrough…Medical Miracle.” Be skeptical about exaggerated claims. There are no miracle weight loss products. To lose weight, you have to reduce the calories you eat and increase your physical activity to burn more calories.
• “Lose 30 Pounds in Just 30 Days.” As a rule, the faster you lose weight, the more likely you are to gain it back. Also, fast weight loss could hurt you. Unless your doctor advises it, stay way from programs that promise quick weight loss.
• “Lose All the Weight You Can For Just $49.99.” Some weight loss programs have hidden costs. Before you sign up, ask for the total costs and get it in writing.
• “I Lost 84 Pounds in Six Weeks!” Don’t be fooled by someone else’s weight loss claims. Even if the claims are true, someone else’s success doesn’t guarantee that you’ll lose weight.
• “Lose Weight and Keep It Off For Good.” Be suspicious about products that promise long-term or permanent weight loss. To lose weight and keep it off, you must change your eating habits and exercise regularly.
• “Guaranteed Refunds in 90 Days.” Be skeptical of mail order companies that offer refunds for a weight loss product after a trial period. The company may not even be in business when you try to get a refund.

We Can Help

If you have a complaint about weight loss products contact us for help or call toll free within North Carolina at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.

For more about avoiding health care scams watch Diagnosis: Fraud, an excerpt from our consumer protection video Standing Up, Fighting Back.