RESIDENTS in Worcestershire are being warned against products claiming to aid a "miracle weight loss."

Worcestershire Trading Standards' officers say the post-Christmas rush to lose weight has meant some residents are buying products that unrealistically claim fat can be lost in hours.

They say many of these products are being posted from oversees, which means Trading Standards has no jurisdiction to investigate the weight-loss claims they make.

Jennie Way, a trading standards officer, said she feared the products could have health and nutrition implications.

"While we endeavour to investigate claims such as these, we urge the public to be aware that in some instances, they are simply not genuine," she said.

"Where money is requested to be sent abroad with the promise of a money-back guarantee, consumers should realise that it is often impossible to track individuals down, so when it becomes clear that the product is not working, there is little chance of seeing that money again.

"We would urge people to follow expert dietary advice."

She said the Food Standards Agency also advises consumers that the most sensible way to diet healthily is to eat a variety of foods, which for most people means eating more fruit, vegetables, bread, cereals and potatoes, as well as less fat, salt and sugar.

If you think you may have bought a misleading product, call trading standards on 01905 765373.

For information on healthy eating, visit www.worcestershire.gov.co.uk/tradingstandards

Do you have a health-related story? Call the Evening News' health reporter Emma Cullwick on 01905 742254, or email ec@thisisworcester.co.uk