Why Baby Boomers Must Beware of Health Marketing Scams

We all want to stay young and healthy and health marketers are keenly aware of it.  They try to sell us products that will make us slimmer, stronger, sexier, and ageless.  This is particularly true for the Baby Boomer demographic that spends big bucks on snake oil that doesn’t live up to its claims.  It’s important to avoid health marketing scams that will drain your bank accounts and may even affect your overall well-being.

Too many of us have become convinced by slick-talking salespeople or ads to buy food, supplements, beauty, and fitness products promising “the fountain of youth.”  Every day a new “wonder” product launches on the Internet with flashy images, “fact-filled” videos, and tempting offers.

Avoid health related ads that pop up with phrases like:

“The only supplement is clinically proven to …..”

“The best way to fight the free radicals that cause aging…..”

“…will get rid of over 315 pollutants that you drink every day…”

“55-year-old mom looks 30 …”

“Developed by a team of cutting-edge doctors….”

Some have celebrity endorsements to give them more credibility and are promoted on talk shows, infomercials, radio, and other media.

But in reality

Many of these products, systems, or regimes don’t live up to their promises and feed on the hopes of anxious customers who want to preserve their health and youthful appearance.

Doctors normally only have 15 minutes to spend per patient and don’t have the time or knowledge to answer questions or give guidance on the pros and cons of these so-called “miracle” products.

Alternative health providers hawk “anti-aging treatments, “healing modalities,” or alternative “testing” methods that aren’t verified or covered by medical insurance. Most do nothing and are expensive.

What is a health-conscious person to do?

• Realize that smart eating and moderate exercise is by far the best way to stay healthy and strong.
• If you feel you need to add supplements to your diet avoid health marketing scams and consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian for advice and counseling.
• Not one is one-size-fits-all.  Products that claim to extend longevity or make you look like you’re 20, will not work for everyone. You could also be compromising your health, looks, or pocketbook by using them.
• Do your homework.  Look at the product’s reviews, documentation, and complaints.  Find out what other people are really saying and don’t go by testimonials that have been slapped up on the company’s website.
• Be wary of network marketing scams.  Although many MLM products are of high quality, the costs and membership fees involved may end up being much more expensive than if you bought a similar product in a store.

Basic rules for good health and longevity:

• Drink water throughout the day.  Always have a glass of water when you wake up and another before going to bed. You may want to squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice into the water for a dose of Vitamin C.  Hydration is key to staying alert and strong.
• Exercise moderately for 30 minutes per day. Walking, swimming, yoga, and dancing are safe and effective activities for people over 50.  If You’ve been inactive, start slowly, and build up your strength before taking on more strenuous activities.
• Stay up to date with doctor checkups, immunizations, blood tests, and wellness scans.
• Eat 80% vegetables along with some fruits and whole grains and 20% protein making sure to watch portion sizes. (use a salad plate rather than a dinner plate)
• Be careful about taking non-FDA approved medications and supplements.  Excessive supplementation can be toxic and may not be compatible with your prescribed medicine. Have your blood tested first to find out if you are lacking in important nutrients. Always check with your pharmacist to make sure that what you are taking as a supplement or treatment will not interfere with your prescription drugs.
• Use stress-reduction techniques like meditation, Tai Chi, hypnotherapy, massage, etc., to stay calm and relaxed rather than scammy sleep aids.
• Add laughter to your life.  A happy, joyous person lives longer and looks and feels younger.

Have you been the victim of health marketing scams? Please leave a comment below.