We spend millions every year on the latest magic bullet for shedding pounds, and the number of weight-loss clinics hoping to cash in on our diet dreams continues to rise. More than 100 new locations for several of the top brand machines – including Weight Watchers – are slated to open their doors this year, in addition to the hundreds that already exist coast-to-coast. None are regulated by Health Canada, costs can vary wildly from one franchise to the next, and most fees aren't covered by company health plans. To help you weigh your options, we asked registered dietitians Heather McColl of Vancouver and Elizabeth Frank of Lunenberg, N.S., to assess five of Canada's most popular programs.
Pros Prepackaged food is a boon for the time-pressed; another plus, the personalized support. You pay as you go. Cons A clinic that links commission to sales may not be in your best interest – you may spend more than necessary.
Celebrity shiller Kirstie Alley lost more than 60 pounds.
Sticker price $500 per month*
* All fees are approximate and can vary by province.
The company maintains that while its products speed up weight loss, they're optional. The company would not say whether staffers receive commission for supplement and bar sales. There are 54 centres across Canada.
Pros The one-on-one consultations are ideal; you get to make the majority of your own food. Cons You must pay for a year's worth of counselling sessions up front or arrange monthly payments through a separate credit company, and you won't get your money back if you quit.
Celebrity shillers None. Despite the name, there are no starlets shilling L A Weight Loss.
Sticker price $150 to $3,000 for 52 weeks; $160 per month for bars*
* All fees are approximate and can vary by province.
Pros Daily one-on-one consultations may keep you on track. Plus, learning how to prepare your own healthy food may help you keep the weight off long term. You pay as you go. Cons The herbal cocktail may interfere with any prescription meds you're taking (talk to your doctor) and its efficacy is inconclusive.
Celebrity shiller DJ Gord Stellick of Toronto's Fan 590 lost 41 pounds on the plan.
Sticker price $300 per month*
* All fees are approximate and can vary by province.
Pros The promise of quick weight loss (a minimum of 10 pounds per month) can be motivating. Dr. B's steep price tag may also encourage dieters to stay on course. You pay as you go. Cons The skimpy calorie count may leave you feeling lethargic and lightheaded. There's also no scientific evidence that shows vitamin B helps break down fat.
Celebrity shiller Former talk-show host Mike Bullard lost 30 pounds on Dr. Bernstein in 2000.Sticker price $600 per month, plus a $315 registration fee*
* All fees are approximate and can vary by province.
Sticker price $60 per month, plus a $25 registration fee*
* All fees are approximate and can vary by province.
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