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The U.S. market for weight control products was worth $1.9 billion in 2004, following a sharp decline that began in 2002, after the market reached $2.2 billion. The combined effects of the Ephedra controversy as well as trends in low-carb dieting have had a strong impact on the weight control product market.
While sales have suffered, Mintel believes the decline is temporary, as interest in low-carb diets is waning, and as manufacturers have produced entirely new lines of products which do not use Ephedra. TrimSpa is one of the earlier success stories. New products launched in 2004 include Relacore and Cortislim. These reduce the effects of the hormone cortisol, which is activated during stress and can cause weight gain. As the low-carb diets decine in popularity, these new products could become the next favorite diet plan. At time of publication, it also appears likely that the ban on Ephedra will be overturned, but regaining consumer confidence and rebuilding sales will take time.
In addition to products designed for weight loss, this report includes products used to gain weight or build muscle. This report focuses on weight control drinks (liquid and powdered) and over the counter weight control pills and candy. | 
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