by Liz Smith

A diet patch aims to help people lose weight quickly and naturally. Often promising “amazing” results in a very short time, these products have found themselves at the center of much speculation and controversy. In the opinion of many in the medical and health community, companies that sell diet patches do so by making deceptive claims. We will examine some of these claims below as well as take a look at some of the potential health risks associated with the use of the diet patch, and conclude with a brief recommendation on a healthier way to achieve weight loss with diet and exercise.

Claims Against the Diet Patch

– In March, 2004, marketers of the “Peel Away the Pounds” patch agreed to pay a one million dollar settlement in the case brought against them by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), who charged that the company had been making false and unsubstantiated weight loss claims in violation of the FTC Act.

– In November, 2004, Illinois Attorney General, Lisa Madigan filed a lawsuit alleging that a Nevada corporation called Diet Patch, Inc., used false advertising to lure consumers across the country to its Web site, then fraudulently billed them for hundreds of dollars of ineffective weight loss products.

– In December, 2004, Canadian consumers who purchased the Zyapex and Dyapex Diet Patches from Performance Marketing Ltd., were granted a full refund. Performance Marketing had given consumers the false impression that without dieting or exercise, they could lose weight, reduce their appetites, control their cravings, and increase their metabolisms.

Potential Health Risks

The diet patch has never beenproven safe or effective. The FDA has seized millions of these producs from their manufacturers and promoters. In addition, most patches are based on iodine compounds, and exceeding the body’s acceptable maximum iodine level, which can pose a health risk. As is the case with many things that seem “too good to be true”, the potential health risks from diet patches should be carefully considered against their claims of amazing results. Moderate exercise and good nutrition are certainly more work, but their safety and effectiveness has been proven many times.

Liz Smith writes on weight loss tips and diet information for thedietchannel.com.
About the Author
Liz Smith is Editor-in-Chief of Trouve Publishing, and a frequent contributor to the award-winning site, www.thedietchannel.com.