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Weight loss supplement claims described as 'absurd' by consumer researcher
Summary
A Which? researcher said many online weight loss supplement claims are unsupported and sometimes exaggerated. The article notes the Advertising Standards Authority accepts complaints about advertising.
Content
Which? researcher Megan Thomas has highlighted a range of online weight loss supplement claims she describes as unsupported and sometimes "absurd". She discussed these findings on the organisation's podcast and gave examples of products making rapid fat‑loss or waist‑reduction promises. Thomas said many items list ingredients without clear evidence to support weight‑loss claims, and she pointed to green tea as a common ingredient that is often promoted as a fat burner without strong backing. Consultant dietician Sophie Medelin also noted there are no registered health claims for weight loss supplements and that some products appear to imitate prescription medicines.
Key points:
- Megan Thomas said many online weight loss supplement claims are unsupported and in some cases exaggerated.
- She cited examples she called "absurd," such as promises of instant fat burning or quick centimetre losses from the waist.
- Sophie Medelin emphasised there are no registered health claims for weight loss supplements and warned some products mimic GLP‑1 medicines.
- The Advertising Standards Authority accepts complaints about adverts and provides online forms for reporting.
Summary:
The researcher and the dietician reported that many online supplement claims lack clear evidential support and that retailers can stretch permissible wording. Undetermined at this time.
