Obesity is a serious problem in the United States. Indeed, the CDC cites that approximately 34.9% of all adults in the country are affected in some degree with being overweight. Furthermore, the CDC also states that in 2008, people suffering from obesity had medical costs that averaged $1,429 more than those of a normal weight. While these numbers are daunting, you needn't  feel powerless to change your situation. Of course, it might be difficult to sift through all the information available to find out what actually works. Luckily, there are several tips from weight loss clinics that can help you spot an dangerous or ineffective diet before you start. 

Low-Calorie or Starvation Diets

It seems to make sense on paper to most people; after all, it's relatively common knowledge that too many calories in your diet lead to obesity, so wouldn't eating drastically less than normal result in weight loss? This of course gives many a false sense of hope, as initially the pounds do fall right off. It is merely a trick, however, as all the weight loss this way is your body dumping water from its system in natural response to starvation. This means it is merely the most temporary of fixes, as your body will reabsorb the water quite rapidly after the diet has stopped. 

Miracle Pills or Powders

Much like snake oil salesmen of old, there are many companies today who claim to be producing the one cure-all for all your weight needs. However, all these medical supplements usually do is end up slimming down your wallet instead of your waist. In fact, most of these pills or powders have very little scientific evidence behind them that they cause weight loss. Always research carefully before considering to take a new substances to supplement your diet. 

Limited Food Diets

Simply put, there isn't any reliable proof that eating certain foods only will decrease your body weight. In fact, quite to the contrary, these diets can be quite hazardous as some of them will cause you to become malnourished due to a lack of food diversity. 

Of course it may be disheartening to learn that so many diets out there simply just aren't viable, but that doesn't mean you should give up! By visiting a weight loss clinic you can be on your way to healthy, medically sound weight loss so that you can start living the healthy lifestyle you need today.