Level One: Assessment of Wellness Information

Analysis of Health Related Pamphlets and Product Advertising ************* Become knowledgeable about the sponsor of the pamphlet or product Review credentials and look for well-known professional affiliations When in doubt confirm registration of credentials and affiliation Is the pamphlet or ad generic Is the information dated Consider reviewing the product using health related safety websites: Recalls, Market Withdrawals, and Safety Alerts http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm 2011 Safety Alert for Medical Products http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm238512.htm Herbs and Supplements http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/herb_All.html Consumer Reports for Health http://www.consumerreports.org/health/home.htm?CMP=OTC-NAV4 Are the claims in the pamphlet or ad too good to be true Is this a bait and switch scam Is the original product available Are there claims of curing or improving a wide range of ailments Examples of phrases in ads or pamphlets that may be suspicious: Scientific breakthrough Secret ingredients Secret formula Miraculous cure Weight loss without effort Rapid weight loss Testimonials Revolutionary Permanent weight loss Can you buy just one Do you have to purchase something else Is the product registered with well-established quality inspection groups or government agencies such as the FDA What is the refund policy What guarantees are stated What complaints about the product or service are being publicized