Diet Pill Makers Got Busted

Millions of Americans make New Year's Resolutions every year. Once again, improving their health and fitness in always on top of their lists. Within this category, weight loss is the number one resolution.

Some people seek special diets, magic pills, crack soups, pre-packaged meals, support group or medical procedures. Keep in mind that diet pills have a long dubious history. Some others follow the most logical approach by combining healthy lifestyle changes, consistent strength and cardiovascular exercises, and healthy eating habits. The latter approach is the one that I advocate to the public and my clients. The weight-loss results may come a little slower than the quick fixes. But the fat loss will be more gradual and healthy. You're more likely to keep it off for the long run.

In an earlier blog, I blasted Dr. Phil's Diet Pill lawsuit settlement. I guess this message didn't get to raise the public awareness about weight-loss diet pills. Several well-known diet pill companies were fined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) by making false claims and misleading the consumers for several diet pills. Click here for details.

The marketers didn't have enough scientific evidence to back up their claims. In fact they had a study that said those who took a placebo actually lost more weight than those taking the pill! “They not only didn’t have studies to support the claim, they actually had a study that went the other way.” said the FTC Chairman Deborah Platt Majoras.

Informercials and celebrity endorsements seem to be tempting and convincing. “Testimonials from individuals are not a substitute for science,” Majoras said. “And that’s what Americans need to understand.”