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When it comes to weight-loss programs, remember the adage "buyer beware." Many programs promise miracles but do little more than take your money. There is no such thing as effortless weight loss.

The National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine offers the following criteria for evaluating a weight-loss program:

• Match the program with the consumer. Programs should provide information on who might and who should not enroll. Consumers should be evaluated by a doctor before undertaking a "do-it-yourself" or non-clinical program. Be sure to discuss the specific program or product you are interested in with your doctor.

• Determine whether the program is safe and sound. Medically supervised (clinical) programs should assess the physical and psychological health of their patients, while non-clinical and do-it-yourself programs should encourage clients to be assessed by their health care providers. If you choose a non-clinical program, you have a greater responsibility for monitoring your own health. You should also be given access to information about the qualifications and training of the program designers and staff.

• Look for hard evidence that the program works and is worth the effort and cost. All programs should be judged on their success in achieving long-term weight loss -- at least a five percent reduction in body weight for one year or more. Make sure that not only does evidence of success exist, but that the source of that evidence is not solely from those who are making money from the program. Independent evaluations from those who do not benefit from the sale of the program are the most reliable.

  The program should also offer information and guidance on health improvement and dieting risks. Clinical programs should provide medical assistance and monitoring. At the start, it is important to recognize that both you and the program are responsible for the results. Keep your expectations realistic, and be willing to devote the time and effort required for success.

External Resources: National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine

This article was published on 1999-11-11
This article was reviewed on 2003-02-03