The red flags of a dubious diet product

Shape, April, 2004

Advertisements for bogus weight-loss products--including creams, wraps, patches, nonprescription drugs and dietary supplements--crop up faster than the U.S. Federal Trade Commission can go after them. As a result, the agency has issued a list of false promises it says consumers need to be aware of. Avoid any product that claims to:

* cause weight loss of 2 pounds or more a week for a month or longer without dieting or exercise.

* cause substantial weight loss no matter what or how much you eat.

* cause permanent weight loss, even when you stop using the product.

* block the absorption of enough fat or calories to cause substantial weight loss.

* cause substantial weight loss for everyone who uses it.

* cause substantial weight loss by wearing it on your body or rubbing it into your skin.

For specific examples of bogus weight-loss ads, go to www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/redflag/index.html.--S.C.