Weight Loss Scams - 10 ways to Avoid them

Lots of people search the web in the hope of finding good weight loss resources. Some companies are doing great work; they offer really useful tools and techniques for those who are struggling; but unfortunately there are also a lot of websites out there who prey on people's sheer desperation to lose weight for the sake of making a quick buck. Yet for all of the so called 'quick fix' solutions out there, as a nation we are actually getting fatter! Go figure....

I believe that in order to be rewarded, you should deliver something that has value. As part of my service to others, I make it my business to be aware of the weight loss products that are on offer to the public. I also make it my business to help you, the consumer, become aware of the traps that are set by companies that just want to take your money and give nothing back. Some companies knowingly promise what they cannot deliver - some even offer you a money-back guarantee along with false testimonials to suck you in; they do so with the knowledge that most people can't be bothered going through the red tape involved in obtaining a refund when whatever they have paid for doesn't work.

So if you are genuinely interested in finding quality weight loss resources that will inspire and empower you, how do you avoid getting scammed in the process? If you're interested in a product but you're not quite sure, I suggest that you type the product name followed by the word 'scam' into your internet search box. This will bring up any reports made my other people about the product or service not working or being a scam. 'Scamwatch' is another great website that will help you in all sorts of ways. It is specifically designed to show you how to protect yourself from being scammed. In the meantime, I have listed below 10 ways to spot a weight loss scam. Stay away from any product, service or company that:

1. Has no scientific evidence between the result and the effects of the program, food, supplement, product or process being promoted;

2. Is sold outside normal commercial distribution channels. For example, it may be sold through the internet, by unqualified individuals or mail order advertisements;

3. Promises effortless, large or fast weight loss such as 'lose 30 kilos in 30 days' or 'lose weight while you sleep' ;

4. Claims that you can lose weight without participating in regular exercise, or without managing your food or energy intake;

5. Fails to recommend medical supervision, particularly for low-calorie diets;

6. Promises to reduce or 'melt' fat or cellulite in specific areas of the body;

7. Recommends the exclusive use of any type of gadget;

8. Promotes a particular ingredient, compound or food as the key factor of success;

9. Uses terms such as "miracle", "scientific breakthrough", "secret formula" and "miraculous breakthrough" to describe their product;

10. Requests large advance payments or requires you to sign into long-term contracts.

I have come across many clients who have been taken in by scams, and I feel very sad when I hear their stories. It is certainly not my way to promote negative belief systems or pessimistic thinking, but the old saying "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is" is a very sensible approach to take here.

The truth is losing weight takes time and effort. It need not take mountains of your money though. Permanent weight loss requires a permanent solution. That is; whatever eating and exercise program you commit to has to be do-able long term. You must be able to look at your program and say: 'I can see myself doing this not just now, but for the rest of my life'.

If you want to make positive lifestyle changes, you must start by changing your mindset. Be wary of parting with your hard-earned cash for the sake of a quick fix. Sadly there is no such thing when it comes to sustainable weight loss. But if I ever find one I will be sure to let you know right away!