Seven ways to spot a fad diet

1. "It's so easy to lose weight without dieting or exercising!" Face it -- permanent weight loss takes work, effort and time. Pass on any products that promise miraculous results without the effort. Buy one, and the only things you'll lose are money and confidence.

2. "Eat whatever you want and still lose weight!" Losing weight requires sensible food choices, not overloading on high-fat, high-calorie foods.

3. "Lose weight forever -- you'll never need to diet again!" For weight loss to be permanent, it requires lifestyle changes. On-going maintenance is always a must.

4. "Scientifically Proven! Doctor Endorsed!" Where is the proof, and how was the research conducted? Were people studied, or rodents? Were there 3 subjects in the study or 3,000? Has the research been published in a medical journal and reviewed by peers? A doctor of what profession? Or is the "professional" as purely fictitious as your weight loss will be? Be sure to check the details.

5. "Rapid weight loss: Lose 20 pounds in 2 weeks!" Looking to lose weight rapidly for your high school reunion or wedding? Products that safely produce lightning-fast weight loss just don't exist. A weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week is the safest and most effective way to take off weight and keep it off.

6. "Lose weight with this miracle diet patch, cream or gel!" You've heard it all before -- "Apply and watch the fat melt away!" But truthfully, all that melts away is your hard earned money.

7. "Money-back guarantee!"It may make you feel safer to give the product a try, but realize that many companies do not follow through with this promise. You're left holding an empty promise and an empty pocketbook.

Source: www.sparkpeople.com