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It could be a wedding, a high school reunion, a New Year's resolution or a tropical vacation. We've all had that moment where an upcoming event makes us wish we could instantly drop 10, 20 or 30 pounds. As panic sets in, ads featuring before and after shots of weight-loss success stories capture the imagination and we muse: "If Mike Bullard lost 30 pounds in seven weeks, why can't I?"

Despite studies saying Americans are getting fatter every year, people are obsessed with weight loss, and the business of losing weight has ballooned into a $30-billion-a-year industry. How much would you be willing to spend to lose 30 pounds?

There's no shortage of options when it comes to weight-loss programs. The key is finding a program that fits your lifestyle and budget. Of course, you could always go the old-fashioned route, reducing calories and increasing exercise, but many dieters benefit from added structure and support, not to mention the accountability (there's nothing like a little public humiliation to keep you motivated) that accompanies an organized program.

But paying someone to keep you on the straight and narrow isn't cheap. Remember, the phrase "caveat emptor" (let the buyer beware) was practically coined for the diet industry. Case in point: LA Weight Loss, the well-known program, shut its doors in January 2008. Customers had to apply to get refunds for services not rendered. Do your homework and remember that there are no shortcuts or magic shakes or bars that will to be your ticket to Slimville.

Read more: How much does it cost to lose 30 pounds? http://www.bankrate.com/finance/persona ... z1rsENvaqK