Hundreds of products on the market today claim to be the best weight loss product available. How can you know which one is right for you, or which ones even work?

Of course, the best possible way to lose weight and get in shape is to eat right and exercise. But even when we commit to a diet and exercise program, we often want that extra "boost" to keep us lose some weight quickly and stay motivated.

If you're starting a new fitness plan, and you want to "jump-start" your results by adding a weight loss pill, here are some pointers for sorting through the "fluff" to find what really works.

Step #1: Select an all-natural product.

Modern science and advances in healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry have made a tremendous impact on our society, but not always for the better. Take Fen- Phen, for example. This is a perfect demonstration that the true effects of such "miracle pills" cannot truly be known until the drug has experienced widespread use for several years. Better to be safe than sorry ? choose an all-natural supplement for weight loss.

Step #2: Know what you're buying.

If you're buying a product from a store, read the label and ask to read any available package inserts. If you're making your selection online, be sure the web site lists all the active ingredients. Remember, if the product doesn't say "all-natural" it's probably not. Read all the product information so you know exactly what you're buying.

Step #3: Don't get suckered.

With so many people seeking weight loss products, and with so many products that promise results and don't deliver, some companies choose to prey on the feeling of desperation that overweight Americans feel. Before you spend your hard-earned money on an expensive product, ask what kind of guarantee the company offers. Legitimate companies will offer a free sample, to allow you to "try before you buy," and some will even stand behind their product by offering a money-back guarantee. Additionally, if the company is subscription based (in other words, you sign up with your credit card and the product auto-ships to you at regular intervals), ensure that you can cancel the subscription at any time. You wouldn't want to sign a contract for a one-year supply only to find that it didn't work for you, or that it worked so well, you no longer needed it after a few months!

Step #4: Try it for yourself.

Take advantage of free samples, and see results for yourself. Everyone's body chemistry is different, so trying a product will give you an idea of whether a particular pill works for you personally. Actually trying a supplement for yourself is the best way to evaluate whether it's right for you.

Step #5: Track your results.

By tracking your results, you'll know which products are working for you. It's a good idea to record your starting weight, body measurements, body fat percentage and BMI (your gym or your doctor can do all of these for you). Remember that fat weighs more than muscle, so the scale alone may not reflect all the changes your body is experiencing. Keep a journal of your stats and also record how you're physically feeling ? this will enable you to determine whether your overall energy level is improving.

Of all the products we reviewed, one stands above the rest in meeting these five guidelines: NiteTrim. The company offers a money-back guarantee and a free 30-day supply, which can be found at http://www.NiteTrimDirect.com.

By following the five steps above, you can ensure that you find the weight loss supplement that's right for you, and you'll be on your way to a healthier, leaner you!

Amy S. Grant, MBA