Losing weight can be tough. When you’re working hard at dieting and exercising, you might be 
tempted to try one of many gimmicks and devices that promise to help you shed pounds easily. Unfortunately, most of these products have no scientific basis for their claims, and in many cases, can actually do more harm than good.
Steer clear of these weight-loss “quick fixes” that are anything but.
Laxatives and diuretics
Long-term use of laxatives can be harmful, and even fatal in some cases. Overusing laxatives, or using them specifically for weight loss can cause dehydration and nutrient deficiencies. Plus, any weight you lose when using laxatives is water weight -- not fat. Similarly, with diuretics, you force out water through urine and stool, but don’t lose any actual weight. Instead, drink plenty of water to keep bloating to a minimum, and avoid bloat-inducing foods like fried foods and processed snacks high in sodium.
Spot-reducing machines and routines
Americans spend millions of dollars on products designed to exercise one specific muscle group, such as the abs or thighs. These products claim to help you spot-reduce one specific area. Spot reduction is a myth; in order to slim down any area of your body, you must diet and exercise to achieve total fat reduction. For annoying trouble spots that don’t respond to your weight-loss efforts, body contouring procedures such as liposuction and tummy tuck surgery can help you look slimmer.
“Natural” diet supplements
Many health food stores and pharmacies sell products labeled as “all-natural” and “safe” because they contain herbs and other plants claimed effective at helping you lose weight. These products are not regulated by the FDA, and aren’t always necessarily safe. In fact, many of these supplements have been found to contain unlisted ingredients that can be dangerous to your health.
Waist trainers and corsets
Some celebrities swear by wearing constricting waist trainers and similar garments to achieve bikini bodies. The reality is, nothing you wear on the outside changes your body composition on the inside. That said, you might prefer wearing shaping garments on special occasions, but keep in mind that your body will return to its original shape after taking them off. Just make sure your garments aren’t too tight, since restricting garments can constrict breathing or result in cracked ribs in rare instances.
Don’t sacrifice your health by trying weight-loss products that aren’t safe. If you find that diet and exercise aren’t giving you the look you desire, talk with a cosmetic surgeon about procedures that can tighten and restore your body back to a more youthful, sculpted shape.
Want to learn more about how you can tone and sculpt your body, and get curves in all the right places? Schedule your free consultation with a skilled cosmetic surgeon at GLOW Surgical Arts today!
