As folks try to achieve their weight loss goals that frequently come with the start of a new year, there are some offers out there that are too good to be true.
The Better Business Bureau has the warning signs.
Many people are turning to diet supplements during this pandemic.
"They purchase something as a free trial and they give their credit card information for shipping and handling," said Susan Bach, the Regional Director for the Better Business Bureau Serving Wisconsin. "Unknowingly they sign up for repeated shipments of those products."
There are several things that can go wrong when purchasing one of these products.
The BBB says there's no such thing as a 'secret ingredient' or 'breakthrough formula' that will help you lose large amounts of weight overnight.
"We want to warn people about those miracle claims that you can lose weight with very little exercise or effort," said Bach. "Those are too good to be true."
Check the ingredients with the FDA. Some supplements, herbs or pills can contain harmful ingredients with nasty side effects.
It's best to discuss these options with your doctor, not an online forum.
"Paid influencers will try to get you to use those products so take those with a heavy dose of skepticism," said Bach. "They are paid to say that."
The best way to lose weight is to determine your fitness goal and find a program that you can stick with.
Losing weight is hard work and requires dedication.
Read all terms and conditions for any weight loss product before purchasing.
You can also research the company on the BBB's website by reading reviews and seeing if there are any former complaints.
