LA Weight Loss: What You Need to Know

The LA Weight Loss system is based on the principles of teaching you how to eat a healthy diet -- which reduces fat and sugar intake while increasing consumption of fruits and veggies -- calorie restriction and maintaining that lifestyle on a long-term basis. The initial phase is heavy in protein but not to the extreme seen in programs like Atkins. Phase two gives you more food choices while phase three is highlighted by perhaps one of the system's most distinguishing components: counselors who you talk to three times a week, either by phone or in person. For the guy or gal who needs an accountability partner, this can be a difference maker. You receive encouragement, guidance and insights as you pursue your weight loss goals.

There are no shortages of people who claim to have lost unwanted pounds on LA Weight Loss. But there are also many who have voiced displeasure with the system and have been vocal in their opposition to the business model on which LA Weight Loss is based [sources: People; FatBlastMax.com].

And that business model may have a direct impact on whether you choose to pursue the program.

There is no magic pill involved with LA Weight Loss, which filed for bankruptcy in 2008 before emerging smaller and more streamlined. If you follow your personal counselor's instructions and adhere to the tailor-made diet, you'll likely lose weight. Unfortunately you'll also lose a chunk of cash, ranging from several hundred dollars to more than $1,000. The price -- which has to be paid up-front -- depends on how much weight you want to lose [sources: Clark; Myers].

In addition, those weight loss counselors are also sales staffers who are working, at least in part, on commission. They're not certified dieticians or nutritionists. Past clients have reported being strongly encouraged to buy nutrition bars and drinks that are not vital to the program but do add additional costs. The conflict of interest inherent with a counselor who is also dependent on a sale, is a deal-breaker for some people interested in losing weight [sources: Clark; Myers].

Limited information, much of it generic, is offered through the company Web site, which ensures that you'll need to contact LA Weight Loss directly when you'll be pitched on the product. If you have the money and need a reasonable weight-loss plan with built-in accountability, it may be worth considering. Those who are on a tight budget but are highly self-disciplined may decide they can research healthy eating habits and make the necessary changes on their own.

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