An expose of bad businesses and their unethical practices

The Better Business Bureau reports that there has been a forty percent increase in complaints against businesses in the multi-billion-dollar weight loss industry since 2002. With more Americans trying to lose weight and more businesses attracted to the industry, this increase was probably inevitable. Of course, the problem is always worse at the beginning of a new year, as people struggle to comply with their resolutions.

Generally, the problems involve people who are trying for a quick fix and are taken advantage of by companies that offer results that they cannot provide. "People want a quick method to lose weight," LeJuan George, a North Alabama BBB spokesman, said, adding that the problem with get-slim-quick scams is twofold: Not only do consumers lose money with upfront fees and down payments, but the products themselves do not work.

Dieters are advised to seek the opinion of a doctor as a part of their weight reduction plans, and to stick with FDA-approved dietary supplements. In addition, before spending a lot of money, weight-conscious consumers should thoroughly research companies before doing business with them. Done right, losing weight does not have to involve Bad Business.