Gimmicks and Gadgets for Weight Loss

Over the years numerous devices have been marketed for weight loss. The majority of these devices are ineffective, and, unfortunately, some are potentially harmful.

Saunas and sweatsuits have, at times, been recommended to help weight loss by burning off or melting away fat. This is a false claim. These devices may induce short-term (ie a number of hours) loss of weight by dehydration. These devices do not burn fat but can cause people to sweat profusely. Overuse of saunas and sweatsuits potentially can lead to severe dehydration. Furthermore, the increase in core temperature that is caused by these devices could be harmful to fetuses during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Other devices such as vibrating belts, bodywraps, and electrical stimulators have been used in an attempt to lose weight. Although these devices may not be harmful, they do not lead to weight loss. The money spend on these useless devices would be better spend on proven techniques. Additionally, if one puts faith and effort into these unproven techniques, one may delay making lifestyle changes that could lead to long-term weight changes.

A widely held myth is that exercise emphasizing a particular body part may cause that area to lose fat quicker than rest of the body. This false theory is called spot reduction. Curl-ups are commonly used exercises that people perform in an attempt to decrease their waistlines. Although curl-ups are terrific exercises for increasing the muscular strength and endurance of the abdominal muscles, they are not very effective for burning fats. As a personal establishes a caloric deficit through regular aerobic exercise, fat loss will occur all over the body, not just the parts where he or she would like to see the decrease.

Programs that advertise rapid, large weight losses are typically deceptive. The rapid weight losses seen at the beginning of such a “diet” are primarily the result of reductions in water weight. It is also important to understand that dietary plans that establish extremely large caloric deficits will substantially reduce RMR and lean body mass and do not establish healthy, lifelong eating habits. The following provides useful information about these fad diets.

Focus on fad diet:
Dietary plans that promise incredible results can be found easily on book selves, in media ads, and on the internet. Many people are looking for quick, easy ways to lose weight, entrepreneurs are eager to supply them. On one description will summarize all fad diets. Many focus on eating one food or food group, whereas others emphasize avoiding certain food. Most of these plans are low in calories and will result in weight loss. (at least according to anecdotal evidence.) however, there are problems. The majority of these diets do not emphasize a balanced diet with an adequate supply of essential nutrients. Over time, these nutritional deficiencies can lead to serious health consequences. Because of the potential for negative health consequences of fad diets, the AHA has “declared war” on fad diets. Another problem with these diets is that they do not lead to lifestyle changes that result in permanent weight loss. Many people follow these diets for a short period of time and then regain their excess weight when they return to their previous pattern of over consuming calories. These diets typically are focus on food rather than behavior change (increasing physical activity, using food substitution).

Hence, a number of “quick fixes” for weight loss are marketed, but these products are at best ineffective and at worst potentially dangerous.

From Health Fitness Instructor’s Handbook 4th edition by Edward T. Howley & B. Don Franks.