ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
Recently the Federal Trade Commission has fined multiple manufacturers of weight loss products for making false claims.
"There are no miracle diet pills," said Capt. Monica M. Whent, 79th Medical Support Staff Clinical Dietetics chief. "The best answer for weight loss is proper nutrition and exercise."
The largest fine was against the marketers of Xenadrine EFX. They are expected to pay at least $8 million and as much as $12.8 million. Xenadrine EFX has claims that they have "... clinically proven to increase the body's metabolic rate and energy expenditure to help promote reductions in weight and body fat."
Bayer Corp., the makers of One-A-Day WeightSmart, will pay a $3.2 million civil penalty to settle claims and agreed to stop the ads, which say multivitamins will increase metabolism.
Marketers of CortiSlim have been fined $12 million. The marketers of CortiSlim claim, "CortiSlim supplements and a lifestyle plan help you increase energy levels, control appetite, manage weight and relax and regain your sense of well being."
Alexander Goen and several companies associated with him will pay $1.5 million for the marketing of TrimSpa. Ads for TrimSpa said the ingredient Hoodia Gordonii aided with weight loss and described it as a plant used by African bushmen to suppress hunger on long hunting trips.
The Federal Trade Commission is expected to collect approximately $25 million for these recent claims.
"Nevertheless, if you do decide to try a dietary supplement, please be sure to do your research and consult your physician first," said Capt. Whent.
For more information, or if interested in attending the Adult Weight Management classes, contact the Nutrition Clinic at 240-857-8076 or the Health And Wellness Center at 240-857-5601.