A diet patch aims to help people lose weight quickly and
naturally. Often promising “amazing” results in a very short
time, these products have found themselves at the center of much
speculation and controversy. In the opinion of many in the
medical and health community, companies that sell diet patches
do so by making deceptive claims. We will examine some of these
claims below as well as take a look at some of the potential
health risks associated with the use of the diet patch, and
conclude with a brief recommendation on a healthier way to
achieve weight loss with
diet and exercise.
Claims Against the Diet Patch
- In March, 2004, marketers of the “Peel Away the Pounds” patch
agreed to pay a one million dollar settlement in the case
brought against them by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), who
charged that the company had been making false and
unsubstantiated weight loss claims in violation of the FTC Act.
- In November, 2004, Illinois Attorney General, Lisa Madigan
filed a lawsuit alleging that a Nevada corporation called Diet
Patch, Inc., used false advertising to lure consumers across the
country to its Web site, then fraudulently billed them for
hundreds of dollars of ineffective weight loss products.
- In December, 2004, Canadian consumers who purchased the Zyapex
and Dyapex Diet Patches from Performance Marketing Ltd., were
granted a full refund. Performance Marketing had given consumers
the false impression that without dieting or exercise, they
could lose weight, reduce their appetites, control their
cravings, and increase their metabolisms.
Potential Health Risks
The diet patch has never been proven safe or effective. The FDA
has seized millions of these producs from their manufacturers
and promoters. In addition, most patches are based on iodine
compounds, and exceeding the body's acceptable maximum iodine
level, which can pose a health risk. As is the case with many
things that seem “too good to be true”, the potential health
risks from diet patches should be carefully considered against
their claims of amazing results. Moderate exercise and good
nutrition are certainly more work, but their safety and
effectiveness has been proven many times.
Liz Smith writes on weight loss tips and diet
information for thedietchannel.com.
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