BBB Tips Can Help You Get Started On Weight Loss Resolutions

The hard truth about losing weight is that it isn’t easy. Unless you eat less or get more exercise, it’s unlikely that the number on the scale will go down.

This time of year, advertisers want us to believe otherwise. Products promise to help us lose weight without diet or exercise, to block the absorption of fat or calories, or to make us look as thin as a famous person who endorses the product.

The Better Business Bureau advises consumers to be skeptical of ads that promise miraculous results. We also have some tips to help you get the most out of weight loss programs, health clubs or similar products. Read the tips below or view our video.

• Avoid products that claim to help you lose weight without diet or exercise. Doctors, dietitians 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, and you need to find a program you can stick with, and preferably one that you enjoy. Find a health club or exercise facility that is convenient and that offers times that fit with your schedule.
• Visit the facility before joining. Check on cleanliness, adequacy of space, machines and qualifications of instructors and any other factors important to you. Ask if you can try the facility out before you join.
• Consider your budget. Ask the health club about joining or enrollment fees and ongoing monthly costs. 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? If the facility closes, can you transfer your membership to another facility?
• Read the entire contract. Does it list all services and facilities and hours of operation? Is everything the saleperson promised included in the 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?
• Check with the BBB first. Anyone can check a company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org or by calling 314-645-3300 during business hours. Look at the firm’s complaint history and whether the complaints were resolved.

Find more BBB news on our website, or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.