Oct 1, 2002 3 min read

In a report released recently, 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.

While Americans struggled to fight the obesity that has become a national epidemic, leading weight-loss expert Andrew Flach, author of the best-selling “Combat Fat!” weighs in with his authoritative insight.

“For years, markets have gotten away with claims that were unfounded and unsafe,” Flach said. “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.”

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 the following features in choosing a weight-loss program:

– Reasonable goals. The program should offer no more than 2 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.

– 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 while maintaining energy and meeting nutritional needs.

– 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.

– 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.

– 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.

Flach is a recognized authority on health and fitness. He is certified by the American Council on Exercise (ACE) as a lifestyle and weight management consultant and has written numerous books on the subject.