Debbie Strong MBA, RD

Now is the busiest time of the year for diets. One only needs to listen to the radio, read a newspaper, or watch television to find the “newest miracle weight loss strategy”. But are these products the real deal or simply a ploy to make a few bucks? Losing weight is not easy, yet Americans continue to look for a quick fix to lose additional pounds. Yes, I am sure a few of your friends or family have lost weight on the products/programs advertised, but how many maintain the weight loss for greater than a year? This is successful weight loss…..weight that is lost at a safe pace (typically, no more than1 to 2 pounds per week), in a healthy manner (avoid eliminating entire food groups) and that is kept off for good. But HOW do you lose weight? The truth is eating less and exercising more, but I am guessing you already knew that. Below are some questions to consider when choosing a weight loss program/product.

• Does the program promise rapid weight loss (example: “Lose 10 pounds in 3 days!”)?
• Do you get to eat anything you want?
• Do you only eat specific foods (such as meats or juice)?
• Does the program/product endorse specific foods/vitamins/supplements that can also be purchased?
• Is exercise encouraged?

If you answered “yes” to any of the questions above, you may want to reconsider this strategy for weight loss. For individuals with health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, it is important to contact your physician before beginning any weight loss program/product.