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Fact: A product that claims to be "natural" or "herbal" is not necessarily safe. These products are not usually tested scientifically to prove that they are safe or that they work.

Some herbal or other natural products may be unsafe to use with other drugs or may hurt people with certain medical conditions. Check with your doctor or other qualified health professional before using any herbal or natural weight-loss product.

Myths:

• Fad diets work for permanent weight loss.
• Skipping meals is a good way to lose weight.
• "I can lose weight while eating anything I want."
• Eating after 8 p.m. causes weight gain.
• Certain foods, like grapefruit, celery, or cabbage soup, can burn fat and make you lose weight.
• Natural or herbal weight-loss products are safe and effective.
• Nuts are fattening and you shouldn't eat them if you want to lose weight.
• Eating red meat is bad for your health and will make it harder to lose weight.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables are more nutritious than frozen or canned.
• Starches are fattening and should be limited when trying to lose weight.
• Fast foods are always an unhealthy choice and you should not eat them when dieting.
• Fish has no fat or cholesterol.
• High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are a healthy way to lose weight.
• Dairy products are fattening and unhealthy.
• Low-fat or no fat means no calories.
• "Going vegetarian" means you are sure to lose weight and be healthier.

Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.