Spanx and other control-top panties are considered by many to be a godsend -- they pull in the paunch and instantly slim without have to do all that pesky dieting and exercising.

But according to some health experts in the UK, control-top panties aren't quite as miraculous as we'd like to believe. Here's why: Flabby midsections are often a sign of weak ab muscles--which are harmful to the back -- and unhealthy eating habits that could lead to diabetes, cancer and heart disease. So while slimming underpants will help you look good for that big event, they're just helping you ignore an uncomfortable and potentially deadly problem -- your weight.

Hmm. A good point. Still, I think donning a pair for that high school reunion isn't the end of the world. Your thoughts?