Weird diets - what's the real deal?

09:33 18 June 2007

Desperate dieters had cause to celebrate last week when health boffins revealed that fighting flab could be as easy as reading a Jackie Collins novel.

They say a saucy read, packed with sex and sleaze, can increase the rate at which we burn calories by 50%.

But away from the bookshelves there's a wealth of weird weight-loss techniques, promising maximum results for minimum effort.

Joanna Hall one of the UK's leading fitness, diet and lifestyle experts helps us separate fact from far-fetched fiction.

ANTI-CELLULITE PANTS

What is it?

The super-tight La Lipo Contour shorts were originally designed by an Italian plastic surgeon to support bums, tums, hips and thighs recovering from lifts and liposuction.

How does it work?

It is claimed the firm nylon mesh "micro massages" your wobbly bits, breaking down cellulite and boosting circulation, resulting in a smoother, perkier posterior that lasts after you take them off.

Fact or fiction?

Fiction. Joanna told the Daily Express: "Cellulite is just fat and the most effective way to get rid of it is with physical exercise."

CLASSIC MUSIC THERAPY

What is it?

Feeling Fat: Touching Deep With Music a CD of specially composed piano music.

How does it work?

The CD is designed to lift the mood of people suffering from all kinds of diet and weight-management problems. The composition begins with a reflection on dark, depressive emotions and then builds to a happier finale.

One dieter claims: "Feeling Fat has eliminated or reduced my appetite for chocolates and greasy foods."

Fact or fiction?

Fact. Joanna says "Music therapy can be great for stress management and when you're less stressed its easier to make the right food choices."

VACUNAUT

What is it?

Running on a treadmill dressed in a rubbery neoprene suit attached to a some vacuum hoses.

How does it work?

It is claimed the Hypoxi Vacunaut machine is "a revolutionary new fat-burning treatment that eliminates cellulite and burns fat through gentle exercise and targeted low atmospheric pressure". The vacuum pressure is said to increase blood flow in the fatty tissue around the stomach and hips.

Fact or fiction?

Fiction. Joanna says: "You don't need a vacuum to get the blood pumping to the right areas. Just get moving and your body will do the work. Dressed in that suit, however, it's bound to feel like hard work."

WEIGHT-LOSS WITCHCRAFT

What is it?

The Witch Doctor Spell Kit For Weight Loss, which includes a special doll "blessed by a Witch Doctor" which "gives you the mindset to lose weight once and for all!"

How does it work?

The manufacturer is unwilling to throw much light on the science behind its weight-loss wonder. It claims: "The Witch Doctor Spell Kit is available only from the California Astrology Association and we are obligated to maintain strict controls and regulations for each kit."

Fact or fiction?

Fiction! Joanna says: "Take control of your weight issues. You can't rely on someone else."

THE DIET PLATE

What is it?

A dinner plate featuring a design to remind a dieter how to eat a balanced meal of the right size.

How does it work?

It's simple just place carbohydrates, protein and veggies in the designated spots.

Fact or fiction?

Fact. Joanna says: "I have grown used to overeating and this simple device is great for re-education."

LAUGHTERSIZE

What is it?

Burn calories in a class for splitting your sides.

How does it work?

Laughtercise clubs are springing up all over the place. Laughter burns calories, releases healthy biochemicals and gives you a natural high.

Fact or fiction?

Fact. Joanna says: "Ok, you won't burn many calories that way but we know that feeling happy and positive is a great stepping stone to a healthier life."