Health authorities, including the American Dietetic Association, the American Heart Association and the American Medical Association agree that trendy diets and magic weight-loss pills do not work.

Case in point: Americans spend $6 billion a year on weight loss products, yet rates of overweight people and obesity have grown to epidemic proportions over the last 20 years.

The best approach to weight control is to adopt sensible behaviors, sound eating habits and as research suggests -- consistent support.

For more information on local chapter meetings, call: Richard Strong, TOPS area captain at 727-9265, visit www.tops.org or call TOPS headquarters at 800-932-8677. There are four Pahrump chapters meeting on different days and times at different locations every week.

Barbara Cady, president of TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), a nonprofit, non-commercial weight-loss support organization, said, "TOPS is dedicated to combining tools for healthy living and sensible weight management with exceptional group support."

People who participate in support groups say that experience gives them a forum to exchange valuable information while providing an opportunity to share information ranging from reasonable menu plans and the benefits of exercise, to tips on strengthening social relationships and self-acceptance.