Smart Weight Loss Doesn't Come from A Bottle

Burn more fat. Boost your metabolism. Build more muscle.

Hundreds of weight loss supplements make claims such as these.

I know it’s tempting to want to try something to make weight loss easier, but you could be putting yourself at risk by doing so.

A new report from the Office of Inspector General found that many of these dietary supplements make illegal assertions on their labels. In fact, one-fifth of the products studied had illegal labeling by purporting to treat, prevent and cure various diseases and ailments. Some lacked that necessary disclaimer stating that the FDA has not reviewed the claim and that the product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Here’s the scary part – which should really make you take that bottle out of your shopping cart – many of the companies that make these weight loss supplements haven’t properly registered with the Food and Drug Administration. So, if someone is taking them and needs emergency care, it could be difficult to reach an official from the manufacturing company.

If you really want to burn more fat, boost your metabolism and build more muscle, there’s a much safer way to do it. Follow the federal guidelines: eat healthy foods, exercise at least 150 minutes weekly and strength train twice a week.

It’s that simple.

Alice Warchol is a freelance health blog writer and fitness instructor.

+ Learn about Medically Supervised Weight Loss

+ Eat Right with a Nutritional Analysis