So, you put on a few extra pounds over the holidays? Or maybe you've been trying to lose weight for a while, and you've decided now is the time to up your game.
Weight loss is among the most common New Year's resolutions - and one that often fails. Better Business Bureau is no weight-loss guru, but BBB handles thousands of complaints about weight-loss programs and products as well as health clubs every year.
The truth is, no pill, cream or dietary supplement will magically transform your body into a thinner you. The Federal Trade Commission took action last year against more than a dozen firms selling bogus weight-loss products ranging from cactus juice to a phony weight-loss belt. Consumers lost millions of dollars to these scams.
BBB advises consumers to be skeptical of any program that promises to melt fat away without any change in your diet or an increase in exercise. It's a good idea to consult your doctor before you embark on a weight-loss program. The doctor may recommend options for losing weight or exercise programs that fit your health status and your ability to stick with a program.
If your doctor prescribes a medication to assist in weight loss, ask about complications or side effects. Tell the doctor about other medications or over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements you may be taking, and report any changes you experience after taking the medication to the doctor.
Before you invest in diet or fitness plans or products, BBB offers these tips:
• Avoid products that claim to help you lose weight without diet or exercise. Doctors, dieticians and other experts agree that losing weight takes work. Pass up any product that promises miraculous results without any effort.
• Be skeptical of claims that you don't have to give up favorite foods or reduce the amount you consume. Try filling up on healthy vegetables and fruits so you can resist high-calorie treats. However, eliminating all your favorites could set you up to fail. It's better to limit portion size or how frequently you indulge.
• Determine your fitness goals. It's hard work to lose weight. Find a program you can stick with, and preferably one that you enjoy. Does a weight loss plan require you to buy special foods? Can you cancel if you move or find that the program doesn't meet your needs?
• Find a health club or exercise facility that is convenient and that offers times that fit your schedule.
• Check with BBB before you sign a contract. Anyone can check a company's BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org or by calling 573-886-8965. Reviews include the firm's complaint history and whether the complaints were resolved.
• Visit the facility before joining. Check on cleanliness, adequacy of space, machines and instructors. Ask if you can try the facility out before you join. If the facility closes, can you transfer your membership to another facility?
• Consider your budget. Ask the health club about "joining" or enrollment fees and ongoing monthly costs.
• Read the entire contract. What's included in the monthly fee, and what will cost you extra? What is the total cost, including enrollment fees and finance charges?
• Understand your rights to cancel your contract. Missouri laws give consumers the right to cancel a health club contract within three days of signing it. The law says three business days, but if the facility is open on the weekends, those days may count as business days.
Sean Spence is the Mid-Missouri regional director for Better Business Bureau.