Let’s face it: we’d all love to find an easy, painless way to shed the pounds. But the reality is that the products that claim to offer this are likely to be nothing but the modern version of snake oil. Because weight loss is such a highly desired result for consumers, there’s a lot of money to be made in weight loss products. While some weight loss products can work, they’re also the top category for fraudulent products and services. An FTC survey revealed that an estimated 4.8 million consumers fell victim to fraudulent weight loss products and scams in the United States.
So what can you do to prevent this from happening to you? Keep these four tips in mind when you see a new product or service that supposedly promotes weight loss. And if you have fallen victim to one of these schemes, don’t be afraid to seek out legal assistance in Texas. Your lawyer can help walk you through the process and will help determine whether you might have a viable case against the company in question. But to prevent the need for legal services altogether, make sure you remember:
There is no such thing as a quick fix
As much as we’d like there to be a miracle cure for weight loss, the simple truth is that this doesn’t exist. Losing weight requires hard work, dedication, and a complete lifestyle change. If you see an ad that proposes you’ll lose 20 pounds in 20 days, don’t believe it. Keep this old adage in mind: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Beware of testimonials
If you’re using reviews and testimonials as proof that a system works, you might want to rethink your criteria. Supposed success stories can easily be fabricated. Even the photos you see on weight loss websites can be manipulated (or even stolen). The people in those pictures may have no idea their photos are being used to promote these products. Unless you know first-hand that a system works, testimonials are not enough.
Natural does not equal safe
“Natural” is a buzzword that is often used in advertising, but it often doesn’t mean what you think it does. The majority of weight loss products have not been evaluated by the FDA, and these companies tend to play fast and loose with their wording. They may even be outright lying. The FDA has tested “all natural” products in the past and found they can contain prescription drug elements or active ingredients that could be dangerous. In addition, products that are all-natural are not always safe to consume! Toxic mushrooms may be organic, but you don’t want them in your weight loss products. Don’t be swayed by manipulative wording. You don’t want your need for legal assistance in Texas to include a medical suit, too.
Do your research
Above all, you need to conduct thorough research before embarking on any type of diet or weight loss program. Consult with your doctor, a nutritionist, or other medical professional. Don’t fall victim to the hype. A quick Google search can often give you all the information you need to know. The Better Business Bureau can offer valuable insight about the company in question, and there are bound to be unfavorable reviews of faulty or dangerous products on the web. You can also seek out legal assistance in Texas if you think you may have invested in a faulty product. Don’t trust that the information on a website or in a commercial is the full story. Do your due diligence and research thoroughly before buying or using.
If you’ve fallen victim to a weight loss scheme or other fraudulent product, you don’t need to feel embarrassed. There are countless other individuals throughout the country who have done the exact same thing. The best course of action is to obtain legal assistance in Texas to tackle the issue. And the best way to ensure affordable legal advice? A Texas legal protection plan. To find out more about our legal protection plans, please contact us today.