By Howard Schwartz of the Connecticut Better Business Bureau
BBB and the FTC Issue Alerts about Weight Loss Supplements and Potentially Deadly Side Effects
This time of year folks are preparing to go to the beach, and for many, that means losing weight. While some consumers will turn to the gym and others modify their diets, Connecticut Better Business Bureau warns consumers that some weight loss supplements make outrageous claims that you can lose substantial weight over a short period, without changing your lifestyle. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has levied $35 million in fines against four national companies that were making unfounded claims about what their “weight loss” supplements can do. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns consumers that some fraudulent supplements may be tainted, cause serious injury or even death. “Claims about dramatic results from weight loss supplements are not new,” according to Connecticut Better Business Bureau President, Paulette Scarpetti. “Unfortunately, internet ads are exposing many more consumers to products that don’t deliver what they promise.”
Some ads for supplements involve phony “before and after” photos, promise that a product can help burn away 15 to 45 pounds a month without dieting or exercise, promise permanent weight loss, fail to disclose whether their advertised results are typical and even use the logos of well-known news organizations to peddle their pills, powders and creams.
More than 4,300 complaints about weight loss supplements were filed with BBB nationwide in 2013. Those complaints detail misleading advertising, paying for but not receiving merchandise, refund and exchange issues and adverse reactions due to the use of a supplement. There are many other supplements that promise consumers unrealistic results, including prevention of damage from concussions, enhancing sexual performance and aiding body building. Dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before being sold. It is left to manufacturers to ensure products’ safety. Continue Reading →