What do you think when you see an ad with the words “quick,” “easy,” and “money-back guarantee” in it? Hopefully, your radar goes off to tell you to stay clear of this product or service. And yet, quick-fix diet supplments are more popular than ever.
You’ve probably heard your local DJ raving about their incredible weight loss with Healthe Trim or YP10. Maybe you’ve seen photographic proof of their amazing transformation. Well, here are three things to keep in mind.
First, that radio personality is being paid to promote that product. You’d probably rave about something if you were paid well to do it, wouldn’t you? Keep in mind that Americans spend forty billion dollars a year on diet plans and products.
Second, the plans included with these products instruct you to cut calories and exercise. Hmmm. So what, exactly, are the pills and drops doing? They claim to boost metabolism and curb appetite, and maybe they do. But that’s a temporary solution. Or are you supposed to take these supplements for the rest of your life? Sounds expensive.
Third, it is very unlikely that the radio personalities – or anyone – will keep off whatever weight they’ve lost. Studies show that around 95% of people who lose weight gain it back – and usually more.
Imagine if that DJ had focused on health gain instead of weight loss. They could have made healthier food choices and moved their bodies more. They may not have lost massive amounts of weight, but they’d undoubtedly have made their bodies healthier and stronger. And shouldn’t that be the goal?
Make smart food choices today. Move your body in a way that makes you feel good. And skip the supplements. The next time you hear an ad raving about a quick fix, a permanent solution, or an easy way to lose weight, take it with a grain of salt. Heck, take it with an entire salt shaker! (Not literally – let’s try to reduce our sodium intake, eh?)
Thanks to Jen for suggesting this post!