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FTC Warns: Caffeine-Infused Undergarments do not help with Weight Loss

By Cheri Cheng | Update Date: Sep 30, 2014 09:35 AM EDT

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has demanded the manufacturers of caffeine-infused undergarments and clothing to pull their advertisements claiming that their products can help with weight loss. The companies, Norm Thompson Outfitters, Inc. and Wacoal America, Inc., have also agreed to refund more than $1.5 million to their customers.

According to Norm Thompson Outfitters, Inc., their caffeine-laden bras, girdles and leggings made with Lytess brand fabric can help people break-down fat, shed pounds, and reduce cellulite. In one ad, the company claimed, reported by FOX News, "slimming and firming results are visible in under a month." The company also stated that these effects can be noticeable "without any effort," suggesting that people would lose weight without having to eat healthy and exercise. Their products were sold via mail order as well as through three other websites linked to the company, which were Sahalie, Body Solutions and Body*Belle.

In response to Norm Thompson Outfitters, Inc., the FTC stated that the company violated the FTC Act by making claims that were not true. The regulators added that none of the claims were "substantiated by scientific evidence."

"Caffeine-infused shapewear is the latest 'weight-loss' brew concocted by marketers," said Jessica Rich, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, according to the news release. "If someone says you can lose weight by wearing the clothes they are selling, steer clear. The best approach is tried and true: diet and exercise."

The FTC also accused Wacoal America, Inc. for false advertising. The company stated that its product, the iPants, could help slim the body, reduce cellulite, decrease thigh measurements and attack fat cells. These claims, the FTC stated, violated the FTC Act as well.

The FTC wants both companies to be banned from making these weight loss claims in regards to their garments. The companies cannot make any claims that their drugs or cosmetic items can help with weight loss unless it is not misleading.

Overall, Norm Thompson Outfitters, Inc. and Wacoal America, Inc., will each have to pay $230,000 and $1.3 million, respectively. The money will be refunded to customers.

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