The article describes the rapid spread of obesity among US residents. Doctors are concerned that cases of excessive weight among adolescents are currently on the rise. The concern is that people who are overweight are at risk for developing cancerous tumors and coronary heart disease. Experts conclude that obesity is the second leading cause of death in the country. Thus, the article addresses issues that can help increase access to information related to the provision of weight loss programs and nutrition. The four expert groups have tried to identify common ground where cooperation can be established and the goals set can be achieved. These expert groups are the provider panel, the consumer panel, the science panel and the government panel.
The FTC’s view on weight loss programs is based on the necessity to look into developing voluntary disclosure guidelines. It will deal with the authority of the staff and the necessary expenses. Such a program would be able to consider health risks and possible side effects (Commercial weight loss products, n.d.). In addition, the FTC is convinced that educating consumers about the benefits of sensible weight loss will greatly improve the nation’s health outcomes. In this way, people can be made aware of the benefits of the diet and maintain a healthy lifestyle and significant physical activity.
The body positivity article on weight loss programs shows the alternative negative side of the projects. First of all, it is aimed at showing people the negative reviews of people who have tried some programs and diets. The article discusses the lack of statistical data confirming the effectiveness of projects and the number of participants who experienced side effects from taking medications. The percentage of participants who achieved success in losing weight and those who remained in the same body or, on the contrary, increased mass, is not given. The article indicates the economic advantage that companies receive from the introduction of such projects. The inability to obtain relevant statistics leads many people to doubt the effectiveness of diets.
Thus, the attitude of Body Positive towards weight loss programs can be formulated as sharply negative. They do not believe in the success of projects and believe that behind this lies the economic benefit of corporations (Evaluating weight loss programs, n.d.). The lack of percentage distribution of the data reinforces their opinion about the futility of diets. The article is aimed at showing people the negative sides and emphasizing the beauty of their own body. Additionally, such a negative opinion is based on the feedback received from real people who have had adverse experiences.
I think that I have become a little less trusting in the effectiveness of the weight loss program. Indeed, one should always consider the fact that such an approach is not suitable for certain people. Unfortunately, unrealistic expectations lead people to drop out of weight loss programs. For it is impossible to lose weight on enthusiasm: after enduring a couple of days of a half-starved existence, a person indulges in all serious temptations and overeating. However, I still find the program justified for those it really helps. This can be a great psychological boost for a person who is desperate to lose weight.
The main similarity of the two articles lies in the consistent consideration of weight loss programs. Both assess the effectiveness and relevance of introducing such projects. However, the FTC article looks at more of the positives and scientifically defines the risks and consequences. At the same time, Body Positive aims to highlight the negative effects and blame corporations for the economic benefits of weight loss programs.
References
Commercial weight loss products and programs what consumers stand to gain and lose. (n.d.). Federal Trade Commission. Web.
Evaluating weight loss programs: What are the red flags?. (n.d.) Body Positive. Web.