Consumer Tips

Weight Loss Promotions

SUMMARY: Experts consistently agree that the way to permanently lose weight is to reduce caloric and fat intake and increase exercise on a continuing basis. No external preparations such as creams or body wraps have been proven to cause permanent loss of fat without restriction of food intake or exercise. Significant weight loss should not be undertaken without competent medical supervision, especially if the amount of weight loss desired in over 10% of body weight.

FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE, THE BBB OFFERS THE FOLLOWING STANDARD INFORMATION:

Weight loss schemes appear to be on the increase. Some weight loss promotions promise consumers the loss of several pounds in a week or overnight without shunning their favourite foods or having to exercise.

BE WARY of claims that promise immediate, effortless and/or 'guaranteed' weight loss. Also, WATCH for buzzwords like 'breakthrough', 'secret', 'exclusive, or 'miraculous' in advertisements. These are not scientific words and often appear in misleading promotions for fraudulent products. Also BE SCEPTICAL of self-proclaimed health advisors who sell their products by using high pressure sales tactics and one-time only offers. BE CAUTIOUS of vaguely worded testimonials that cannot be verified. Testimonials should not serve as a substitute for scientific proof of a product's efficiency.

Any product that has weight-loss properties MUST have a Drug Identification Number, contact the Health Protection Branch at (604) 666-3350 to confirm this number.

BEFORE committing to a weight loss product or program, check with your physician, a qualified nutritionist and/or a registered dietitian. Also check the offer out with the Health Protection Branch if you have questions about an advertised product. IF THE PROMOTION PLAN SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS.