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| - Last Updated on June 28, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media video claims that Fitness Plus guarantees weight gain. We did the fact check to term it as False.
The Claim
We came across a Facebook video which claims to guarantee 100% results for weight gain. It says the product is ‘chemical’ free and contains no steroids. It further asserts that the product uses 11+ super herbs and is 100% safe.
Fact Check
What is the product and can it guarantee weight gain?
No, it cannot guarantee weight gain, as claimed. Fitness Plus claims to guarantee 100% results for weight gain, asserting it is made from 11+ herbs rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. The accompanying video states it contains no steroids or ‘chemicals’. However, it’s important to note that everything, including the water we drink, the air we breathe and our own bodies are made up of chemicals. Therefore, claims of being entirely chemical-free should be approached with scepticism. Additionally, the product claims to be 100% safe and effective.
After reviewing the website, we found significant lags. The site lacks essential information such as a complete ingredient list, product price, and the Medihelp Report mentioned in the video. Here is a screenshot of the product page:
Further investigation on Facebook and Instagram helped us to identify the list of ‘super herbs’ used in the powder, which we located on their Instagram page. Here is a screenshot of the same:
Moreover, the ‘Click here to gain weight >’ tab on the website was non-functional, with no pricing information. Instead, there was a random display mentioning Cash on Delivery (COD), Buy 1 Get 1 offers, and Easy Returns. Additional research using Google reverse image search revealed that the product is also available on Amazon, where it has only one customer rating. Two customer reviews on their Facebook page expressed dissatisfaction with the product’s effectiveness.
All in all, the absence of a detailed ingredient list, a poorly structured website lacking critical information, and the failure to provide evidence of the Medihelp Report as claimed in the video cast doubts on the product’s quality and authenticity. The presence of non-functional tabs on the website and the use of unsubstantiated claims of being ‘chemical-free’ to attract consumers are concerning tactics. These factors collectively suggest that the product may be misleading and its purported claims false.
What do the experts say?
We interviewed Nidhi Sarin, a Clinical Nutritionist & a Certified Diabetic Educator, Hyderabad for her take on weight gain powders. She says, “Weight gain powders can increase calorie intake, potentially leading to weight gain if consumed in a caloric surplus. However, without exercise or dietary adjustments, the gained weight may primarily be fat rather than lean muscle mass. Moreover, relying solely on powders neglects essential nutrients found in balanced diets, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies over time. Therefore, while weight gain powders can boost overall calorie intake, sustainable and healthy weight gain requires a balanced approach, including proper diet and exercise, to promote muscle growth and overall well-being.”
Manasi Banduni, a Sports Nutritionist, Bangalore, also shares her expertise, “I would advise against placing too much reliance on weight gain powders alone. Even though supplements can complement a balanced diet for some individuals, they should not serve as a magic solution for weight gain. Sustainable weight gain requires a comprehensive approach that includes personalised dietary strategies to meet calorie and nutrient needs.”
How to gain weight?
For effective weight gain, individuals should focus on consuming a calorie surplus through nutrient-dense foods commonly available. This includes lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and legumes; healthy fats like nuts and seeds; and complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and vegetables. Additionally, incorporating strength training exercises that target major muscle groups promotes muscle growth and helps convert excess calories into lean body mass.
Make sure you get enough sleep, and avoid smoking and alcohol. Because these factors affect your weight too. Build muscle and healthy fat, not excess belly fat. Higher body fat raises diabetes risk, even in heavier individuals. A balanced diet supports safe weight gain.
Are weight gain powders safe?
Protein weight gain powders, including those like Fitness Plus, pose potential health risks that consumers should be aware of:
- Regulatory Oversight: Protein powders are classified as dietary supplements, which are not closely regulated by the FDA for safety and accuracy in labelling. This lack of oversight means there’s uncertainty about whether a product contains what manufacturers claim.
- Long-Term Effects: Limited data exists on the long-term effects of high protein intake from supplements. Potential risks include kidney strain and other health complications.
- Digestive Distress: Powders containing dairy-based proteins can cause discomfort for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, leading to gastrointestinal issues.
- Added Sugars and Calories: Some protein powders are high in added sugars and calories, potentially contributing to weight gain and adverse effects on blood sugar levels. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar intake to avoid health risks.
- Toxin Contamination: Recent reports have highlighted concerns about toxins in protein powders, including heavy metals like lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, as well as bisphenol-A (BPA) and pesticides. These contaminants may pose health risks and are attributed to manufacturing processes or contaminants in raw materials.
Consumers should research and select protein powders carefully, considering third-party certifications and independent testing for contaminants. The Clean Label Project provides insights into product safety and toxin levels. They offer transparency for informed purchasing decisions.
Conclusion
The claim that Fitness Plus guarantees weight gain lacks credibility and raises significant concerns about product transparency and safety. Hence, it is false. Sustainable weight gain requires a balanced approach including proper nutrition, exercise, and informed product choices. Consumers should avoid relying on random social media videos for their health choices and instead seek guidance from trustworthy sources such as doctors and healthcare organisations. Health advice from the internet may prove detrimental rather than beneficial.
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