The Biggest Loser winner.....Oh my gosh really disturbing!

10 years ago

I doubt she has a disease but I agree she went to extremes.

On the one hand - even the coaches looked at each other in a "WTF" way when she walked out.

On the other hand - she won $250k so maybe the extreme weight loss was deliberate.

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discrat 10 years ago

yeah it is hard to say whether for sure she may have it or not. I definitely would NOT write it off though. I know ( girls in particular) this disease can ravish a persons mind and body.

A lot of it can be triggered by serious emotional issues or an event.

Her Dad was like the Biggest A-hole to her. Major A-hole if you heard her story. Just a sad excuse for a Dad, imo

Anyway, I do not think this is a good representation or the message of what the Biggest Loser wants to convey to our Society. Women especially.
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- Kay King 10 years ago
  
  I don't think it's that big a deal. Even if a bit too thin - it's healthier than weighing 260 lbs. I like to watch the weigh-ins but don't watch the entire show. She seemed to be quite goal oriented and determined - also highly competitive throughout the season.
  
  Would I starve myself for a few weeks to earn $250k? You betcha.
  
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  discrat 10 years ago
  
  Originally Posted by Kay King
  
  Would I starve myself for a few weeks to earn $250k? You betcha.
  
  Yeah, I must admit I would probably do the same thing too. A windfall like that is pretty nice to have.
  
  I mean look at Matthew Mcconaughey.
  
  Just hope that is all there is to it with her.
  
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  Claude Whitacre 10 years ago
  
  Here's a photo. She looks pretty good to me. Tan and fit. Maybe slightly underweight.
  
  'Biggest Loser' sparks concern over winner Rachel Frederickson's weight loss* - NY Daily News
  
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  discrat 10 years ago
  
  Photo does not really give right perspective if you saw her Live and moving around on stage.
  
  Did not look good at all last night.
  
  I think Jillian pretty much confirmed all this with her expression of disbelief.
  
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BigFrank Banned 8 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

On the other hand - she won $250k so maybe the extreme weight loss was deliberate.

I wouldn't be too worried about her. $250K will buy a lot of Big Macs and that's generally how people like this wind up.

Cheers. - Frank
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danr62

10 years ago

Yeah, she looked bad. I can't blame her too much with $250k on the line.

I'd be disturbed if she still looks like that in a few months.

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Claude Whitacre 10 years ago

I watched the video. If you saw her on the street, you wouldn't think she was anorexic. Her thighs were muscular and full. Her bones weren't showing.

Her face may have been a little lean. But 105 pounds for a girl that's 5' 4"? Not unusual. Now..if she's 5' 8"? That's a little unusual.

She was very lean, and couldn't lose more weight, without losing muscle mass.
But again, if she worked in an office, nobody would think she had an eating disorder.
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Dan Riffle

10 years ago

As much as it pains me, I agree with Claude.

Most likely, she'll put on a few pounds now that competition is over, but 105 at her height isn't surprising for a fit woman.

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Dennis Gaskill

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Dan Riffle

As much as it pains me, I agree with Claude.

Most likely, she'll put on a few pounds now that competition is over, but 105 at her height isn't surprising for a fit woman.

Quoted for posterity. Marked on the calendar. You'll never be able to deny this, Dan. It will cost you big time if you ever want me to edit this post. >8D

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Floyd Fisher 10 years ago

Hate to say this, but I have to agree she went way too far.

This weight chart says it all IMHO...she is way too skinny.

That is definitely something that needs to be addressed next season....hopefully they do something about it.

Starving yourself like that is definitely no way to win the prize.
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- Kay King 10 years ago
  
  But 105 pounds for a girl that's 5' 4"?
  
  I didn't realize she was my height.
  
  Two years ago I weighed 105 lbs and I'm 5'4". I wasn't eating enough for the energy I was expending at the time - simple as that. I felt fine but even I could see in the mirror I was looking kind of scrawny and size 6 jeans were baggy all over.
  
  It's not hard to gain 10-15 pounds if you put your mind to it My weapon of choice was chocolate milk shakes!
  
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Claude Whitacre

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Dan Riffle

As much as it pains me, I agree with Claude.

What did you say? A little louder, Please?

I can't hear you!

Did you say "I agree with Claude"?

Did you mean me? Or a different Claude?

I have to be sure.

My wife and I were just discussing our wedding anniversary (which was yesterday), and I said "Hold on, Cheryl! Riffle just said "I agree with Claude!"

And she asked "Does he mean you?"

And I said "I hope so, because this would then be the most important date in my entire life! All other dates will pale in comparison."

And then I woke up on the floor, with a knot on my head. No idea how I got there.

Originally Posted by Kay King

I didn't realize she was my height.
!

Kay, I hope you aren't basing her height on what I said. I was guessing at her height. I was basing it on how she stood next to several other people.

Unless it said, on the show, that she was 5'4".

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Kay King

10 years ago

Frederickson is 5'4″

That's on the Biggest Loser website. You know I wouldn't trust your numbers, Claude:p

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tagiscom

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Dan Riffle

As much as it pains me, I agree with Claude.

Most likely, she'll put on a few pounds now that competition is over, but 105 at her height isn't surprising for a fit woman.

Originally Posted by Claude Whitacre

What did you say? A little louder, Please?

I can't hear you!

Did you say "I agree with Claude"?

Did you mean me? Or a different Claude?

I have to be sure.

My wife and I were just discussing our wedding anniversary (which was yesterday), and I said "Hold on, Cheryl! Riffle just said "I agree with Claude!"

And she asked "Does he mean you?"

And I said "I hope so, because this would then be the most important date in my entire life! All other dates will pale in comparison."

And then I woke up on the floor, with a knot on my head. No idea how I got there.

Kay, I hope you aren't basing her height on what I said. I was guessing at her height. I was basing it on how she stood next to several other people.

Unless it said, on the show, that she was 5'4".

Now you have done it! :rolleyes:

Shane

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socialentry

Banned 10 years ago

if only more women would follow her example.

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Dan Riffle

10 years ago

BMI Not a Good Measure of Healthy Body Weight, Researchers Argue | LiveScience

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Floyd Fisher

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Dan Riffle

BMI Not a Good Measure of Healthy Body Weight, Researchers Argue | LiveScience

That article is talking about the definition of too much weight...a lot different than having too little. And it actually reinforces the point she went too far in her weight loss.

Like I said, starving oneself is no way to win a biggest loser prize...and it needs to be addressed before we start seeing contestants and winners end up in clinics for anorexia and bulimia.

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Dan Riffle

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Floyd Fisher

That article is talking about the definition of too much weight...a lot different than having too little. And it actually reinforces the point she went too far in her weight loss.

Like I said, starving oneself is no way to win a biggest loser prize...and it needs to be addressed before we start seeing contestants and winners end up in clinics for anorexia and bulimia.

Floyd, we must have read different articles. The one I linked discusses how BMI is innacurate. I don't see how it in any way reinforces your point.

Her bodyfat levels don't appear to be near that of female fitness competitors who maintain sub-10% bodyfat levels. She has a thin, small frame.

That being said, I'm sure she'll pack on a few lbs now that the competition is over.

I'd also be surprised if a show like Biggest Loser doesn't already monitor for eating disorders.

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Kay King 10 years ago

I'd also be surprised if a show like Beggest Loser doesn't already monitor for eating disorders.

From what I read of the show - the contestants are monitored by doctors throughout the process.

What no one is mentioning is that obesity IS an eating disorder, too.

They measure the contestant's weight by using a percentage weight loss measurement - which is the only way they could run a competition like this.

it needs to be addressed before we start seeing contestants and winners end up in clinics for anorexia and bulimia.

The show is in its tenth season - and so far that hasn't happened.
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Floyd Fisher

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Dan Riffle

Floyd, we must have read different articles. The one I linked discusses how BMI is innacurate. I don't see how it in any way reinforces your point.

Her bodyfat levels don't appear to be near that of female fitness competitors who maintain sub-10% bodyfat levels. She has a thin, small frame.

That being said, I'm sure she'll pack on a few lbs now that the competition is over.

I'd also be surprised if a show like Beggest Loser doesn't already monitor for eating disorders.

Dan:

The article itself is saying BMI is inaccurate as far as what constitutes too much weight. And the fact research is pointing out that you may need to weigh more than previously thought is only reinforcing my point that she went too far in her weight loss.

And yes, as a person who has family members battling anorexia (please pray for them), I am absolutely horrified by this. I am going to stop watching that disgusting show until NBC comes forward with the proper mea culpas, and takes steps to prevent it the future.

As far as how to fix the show, let's stop just focusing on the weight loss, and balance it out with fitness. Not only should they lose weight, but let's see how many pull ups, push ups, and sit ups they can do as well, and come up with a combined score that isn't all about the pounds.

Now that is a contest I can get behind.

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Kay King

10 years ago

As far as how to fix the show, let's stop just focusing on the weight loss, and balance it out with fitness. Not only should they lose weight, but let's see how many pull ups, push ups, and sit ups they can do as well, and come up with a combined score that isn't all about the pounds.

Have you ever watched the show?

It's daily hours of exercise, strength training, physical challenges, nutrition, running, weights, triathlon. The weight is a focus because weight loss is necessary to regain health for these people...and because it's a measurement that can be used.

This show doesn't claim to solve medical eating disorders - it's focused on helping morbidly obese people lose weight to improve their life and health.

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Claude Whitacre

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

Have you ever watched the show?

It's daily hours of exercise, strength training, physical challenges, nutrition, running, weights, triathlon. The weight is a focus because weight loss is necessary to regain health for these people...and because it's a measurement that can be used.

This show doesn't claim to solve medical eating disorders - it's focused on helping morbidly obese people lose weight to improve their life and health.

I should have mentioned, that although she looked on the slight side. She sure looked fit. Seeing muscle definition? Great. Seeing bones? Not so great.

And, I've never watched the show. So my posts on this will reflect that.

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Floyd Fisher

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

Have you ever watched the show?

It's daily hours of exercise, strength training, physical challenges, nutrition, running, weights, triathlon. The weight is a focus because weight loss is necessary to regain health for these people...and because it's a measurement that can be used.

This show doesn't claim to solve medical eating disorders - it's focused on helping morbidly obese people lose weight to improve their life and health.

Yes, I have watched the show in the past, but after this season, I'm not watching no more unless NBC makes some serious changes to the show.

Yes, losing weight should be one of the goals, but not the entire end game. Let's have the actual competition for the money also include a fitness score based on things like pull ups and sit ups....not just how many pounds you lost.

Strong is the new skinny.

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Floyd Fisher 10 years ago

Let's see if we can throw some more fuel on this fire, shall we?

Season one winner admits dehydrating himself to the point of urinating blood just to win the prize.....and he's now back to being over 300 lbs.

Season three finalist reveals show left her with an eating disorder.

Medical community weighs in....show is considered dangerous.

Anyone want to keep defending this now?
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- Kay King 10 years ago
  
  http://www.today.com/id/40423712/ns/.../#.UvSBebRjIpE
  
  Quite a few of former contestants with their past/show/current weight on the link above. Many have gained back 20-40 lbs but only a couple of them are near the weight they started with.
  
  It's not really "defending" the show - it's not for everyone and it's TV - it will have exaggerations and other stuff. I don't much care for the psycho babble and the sob stories that keep repeating on the show. I've been surprised there haven't been more injuries or heart/respiratory problems.
  
  As for the contestants - they get on the show because they have an eating disorder. I'm sure some are helped long term - some short term - and some move to a different eating disorder or revert back to their previous lifestyle choices.
  
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HeySal

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Floyd Fisher

Dan:

The article itself is saying BMI is inaccurate as far as what constitutes too much weight. And the fact research is pointing out that you may need to weigh more than previously thought is only reinforcing my point that she went too far in her weight loss.

And yes, as a person who has family members battling anorexia (please pray for them), I am absolutely horrified by this. I am going to stop watching that disgusting show until NBC comes forward with the proper mea culpas, and takes steps to prevent it the future.

As far as how to fix the show, let's stop just focusing on the weight loss, and balance it out with fitness. Not only should they lose weight, but let's see how many pull ups, push ups, and sit ups they can do as well, and come up with a combined score that isn't all about the pounds.

Now that is a contest I can get behind.

I am a person who has been accused of having anorexia. I do lose weight rather than gain when under stress. I recently got to under 90 pounds when my dog died, but that doesn't last long. I can tell you though I am at my best at 112 - 115 and I am 5'6" and by charts that's not enough. I have a very small frame and it is perfect - I can tell by the way I feel at that weight. Strong with energy, flexible. Any more and I start to get lethargic and puffy, with fat bulges here and there.

Now - what is important - is that when I am at my optimal weight, there are people who absolutely rail in my face about my weight. "You are too skinny" "You look sick" "Are you on drugs". And that is when I am at my healthiest. What I'm finding is that we have a corn-fed society of people that are being conditioned to think not one thing of overweight - and I find that a bit chunky is even a typical standard of what people view as healthy any more. Invariably, the people harping at me that I'm not perfect enough for them have some fat bulges of their own they should clean up before opening their own pie holes about someone else.

Some people are constructed to carry less weight than other people and for some reason we're being programmed to think that a little over is normal. It's not.

I've gotten to the point that when people just openly insult me when I know I'm at my optimal weight I just fire back at them "if you weren't so fat, you wouldn't think I'm so damned skinny". They are shocked and start yelling about "offensive" without thinking that maybe insulting my weight was a little offensive -- especially when they accuse me of being a drug addict for not looking like a hippopotamus in training.

This whole weight thing is ticking me off. That woman looks just fine. She might be a little thinner than a lot of people are - but she's got nice muscle mass. I'm sorry that you have a family member with anorexia, Floyd - but thin doesn't mean someone has any issues no matter what damned charts they are circulating. The USDA food pyramid now claims that people should be eating 11 helpings of grain a day. Really? Like I said - corn-fed society. That food pyramid is put out by the FOOD industry. Think about it for awhile.

This woman claims her weight was due to stress - that kind of weight is just as easy to take off as weight dropped due to stress is easy to put back on. There's not one whit of evidence that she starved herself. People aren't starving just because they lose wieght. As a matter of fact - if you are eating GMO foods or foods with the wrong additives, you can actually eat even more organic food than you were eating chemical ladden crap and still lose weight.

Honest to god I hope that I don't run into anyone in this forum before I gain my last 7 pounds back. I don't think I'd take kindly to some of the ignorant remarks I've seen about the lady in the subject pointed in my direction. Good grief.

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mojojuju

10 years ago

She looks fine. I'll bet she's much healthier at her present weight than at that of her former self.

Originally Posted by Dan Riffle

BMI Not a Good Measure of Healthy Body Weight, Researchers Argue | LiveScience

That's right. It was never intended to be used as an individual measure to determine whether or not an individual is under/over weight. But the medical community and society has bought into the idea that it is. It's stupid.

The BMI was created in the 19th century by a Belgian statistician who was trying to assess the collective weight of a population. It was never created for, nor intended to be used, on individuals. However, the ease of the formula made it more convenient for doctors and insurance companies to use rather than more complex measures of fatness such as skin-fold caliper testing or underwater weight displacement testing, so it became the norm.

Debunking the BMI Myth - Be Nourished

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yukon

Banned 10 years ago

$250K will buy a lot of Big Macs.

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Claude Whitacre 10 years ago

Originally Posted by yukon

$250K will buy a lot of Big Macs.

I hope it buys her some self esteem.
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- Kay King 10 years ago
  
  Claude -
  
  I think she has a load of self esteem now. She was a competitive swimmer who became obese. She has worked hard for months to change her body and her outlook - she took charge of her life and that builds self esteem.
  
  In the end, she may have lost a little too much weight - but she's still far, far healthier than she was at 260 lbs.
  
  Her goal was to win the competition - and she did what was necessary to insure that happened. Smart woman!
  
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- yukon Banned 10 years ago
  
  Originally Posted by Claude Whitacre
  
  I hope it buys her some self esteem.
  
  I'm sure that ship has sailed.
  
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bizgrower

10 years ago

It's very weird to agree with Riffle and Claude at the same time.

I think she knew she had to lose a hundred something to win and went as far
as she could go. I think she'll now bounce back to her new equilibrium body weight
in the 110 to 120 range.

I watched some of her 'after winning' interviews and she does discuss
rediscovering her former self (athlete...) and the support and motivation
from the trainers and med staff. As part of this process, I think she has
also recovered her self esteem, self respect, and motivation to be less fearful.

I certainly hope this show inspires people in the right way and think only
a minority of unintelligent people will try weight loss in a harmful way.

With eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, there is usually an
underlying emotional disorder in the first place. Dieting properly
does not cause them.

I recall reading a case study about an anorexic person who was cured
by choosing to eat with people she wanted to be around. Her therapist
coached her to do so. Her emotional issue had to do with not feeling in
control of her life (rough family background, peer pressure...). So, as she
learned that she could make choices and made better choices the anorexia
went away.

Dan (I mean Biz, since Riff's here.)

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

I agree with OP. I think she looks awful. I don't see any muscle. I see bone thin arms, legs and face in a way that doesn't look good at all. I wouldn't want that to be the goal for one of my teenagers or even adult children.

If she starved herself to get the money, it's time to go treat herself to a few hot fudge sundaes or something.

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Kay King

10 years ago

There's a lot of talk but I found a site where SHE is talking about it.

Biggest Loser Winner Rachel Frederickson Dodges Too Skinny Questions, Eats 1,600 Calories a Day | E! Online

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discrat

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

There's a lot of talk but I found a site where SHE is talking about it.

Biggest Loser Winner Rachel Frederickson Dodges Too Skinny Questions, Eats 1,600 Calories a Day | E! Online

Yeah she really needs to stay on maintenance mode ,thats for sure. And stick with Yoga instead of the Spinning. At least for some time.

Lets be honest This whole Biggest Loser is fueled by Money and Ratings.

This kind of training 8 hours a day and losing 25 lbs in one week is the biggest bunch of bullsh!t.

Not only is it counter productive in terms of long term weight loss and health but it also puts these morbidly obese people in a situation where they could have a heart attack or stroke.

Screw the medical team. If these people have a sudden massive heat attack or stroke (after Jillian screams at them to do just 10 more seconds on the treadmill) there aint no doctor on hand thats going to be able to help save them from death.

Its that simple.
( Which I think did happen around 5 years ago with that older guy. He didnt die. But he did have a mild heart attack, I think ?)

And if you ask any respected Medical Doctor or physiologist or trainer they will say the same thing (and currently are saying)........... that The Biggest Loser is NOT the way to go about losing weight and getting healthy.

Bob,Jillian, Dolvett and the Producers and Writers are clouded by money and fame.

I want to get a List of every Biggest Loser Contestant for the last what 12 years its been on. And just see where they are in weight and health status.

I bet you the farm many are right back to they were before or maybe even worse off.

Shame on Bob and Jillian for being such slimy,greedy twits . In my opinion they are not even close to being authentic trainers.

Someone authentic would not be doing this kind of ridiculous training with people who shouldn't be doing it. Period !

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seasoned

10 years ago

So she was 12 pounds or more lighter than she should be? <12%!?!?!? Women are supposed to have more FAT than that. She could be VERY healthy for a person and still be that scrawny. It is likely problematic for a woman, but some ballerinas and the like do the same ON PURPOSE!

Steve

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InternetMagic

10 years ago

She is 5'5" tall (according to the excerpt from an interview that she did after winning that I watched. She is very FIT, has significant muscle and a very low body fat level. The very high percentage of her weight loss will be extremely difficult to maintain for many reasons. The biggest reason is that much weight loss in a relatively short period of time cannot be maintained. That large weight loss occurred with her having a grueling workout schedule that NO ONE who has a job or life would be able to maintain daily (or should want to). It will be natural for her to gain some weight back and probably healthier for her to gain a little bit back. I'm more concerned with her having continued emotional support to help her have a balanced outlook on her weight and her fitness level now that the program for her has ended.

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Kay King

10 years ago

I don't get the big drama here. Yes, they exercise and train several hours a day (don't know how many) - but they don't lose 25 lbs a week. The big weekly losses are in the early weeks when there is so much weight to lose.

I know two local women who were motivated to lose weight watching the show last year. They follow the recipes on the website - they use the videos and exercise to those and they motivate each other. Both have lost over 50 lbs and are feeling great. Both were obese and seriously out of shape - they look so much better and say they feel fantastic. That's two people and I'd bet there are hundreds or thousands of people in the country who have been motivated to lose weight just from watching this show. I think that's a good thing.

Obesity is a huge problem in this country. To have any show where the goal is improve health, eat healthy, exercise and reach a normal weight - is all good to me. I think someone is more likely to die of heart or other disease from carrying around 100-200 extra pounds year after year than from diet and exercise. There is nothing healthy, comfortable or pretty about being double the weight your body was meant to be.

I don't think any of us knows enough about those contestants or their health to be passing judgment on them. Just saying - it's a TV show - the people are on it because they want to be. I admire their dedication and perseverance in sticking with it week after week.

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seasoned

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

I don't get the big drama here. Yes, they exercise and train several hours a day (don't know how many) - but they don't lose 25 lbs a week. The big weekly losses are in the early weeks when there is so much weight to lose.

I know two local women who were motivated to lose weight watching the show last year. They follow the recipes on the website - they use the videos and exercise to those and they motivate each other. Both have lost over 50 lbs and are feeling great. Both were obese and seriously out of shape - they look so much better and say they feel fantastic. That's two people and I'd bet there are hundreds or thousands of people in the country who have been motivated to lose weight just from watching this show. I think that's a good thing.

Obesity is a huge problem in this country. To have any show where the goal is improve health, eat healthy, exercise and reach a normal weight - is all good to me. I think someone is more likely to die of heart or other disease from carrying around 100-200 extra pounds year after year than from diet and exercise. There is nothing healthy, comfortable or pretty about being double the weight your body was meant to be.

I don't think any of us knows enough about those contestants or their health to be passing judgment on them. Just saying - it's a TV show - the people are on it because they want to be. I admire their dedication and perseverance in sticking with it week after week.

Yeah, 25 is pushing it. The most agreesive is like 2 pounds/day for a man, or 1 pound/day for a woman. Still, who knows? There isn't any LAW that says you can't lose more. In theory, if a person starved themselves for a day, and did NO exercising, they would lose an average of approximately 1 pound a day. That isn't counting water weight and the like. with ME, I would probably want my starting weight to be at night, and the finish in the morning. On average, I weigh 3 pounds less in the morning!

Steve

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

I don't get the big drama here. Yes, they exercise and train several hours a day (don't know how many) - but they don't lose 25 lbs a week. The big weekly losses are in the early weeks when there is so much weight to lose.

Rapid weight loss should never be the goal for long term, sustainable, healthy weight loss. Below are two female Olympian swimmers and as you can see, they do not look gaunt and emaciated. Rachel Frederickson has the look of a woman well on her way to anorexia or another eating disorder.

I sincerely doubt that she will sustain this weight loss. Now off the show and back to ordinary life, once she reduces her physical activity and/or increases her food intake, she will not only regain the weight, but as often happens with rapid weight loss, will gain more than she weighed before the drastic weight loss.

Dara Torres: At age 41, she was the oldest female Olympic swimmer ever. In her career, she's won 12 Olympic medals and 4 gold. In the 2008 Beijing summer Olympics, she won silver in the 50m free style. And besides those amazing arms, her greatest accomplishment - being a mom while doing it.

Natalie Coughlin of the U.S., has already had quite the Olympic career. If she can win two more medals in London, she'll be the most decorated female swimmer in U.S. history. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)

On reactions to Rachel's weight loss

"In 15 seasons of the show, it's remarkable that this is the first time it's actually triggered this kind of national conversation, because the logic of the show has been this from the outset: lose as much weight as quickly as you can, and that's how you win this competition."

"Everyone keeps going to the faces of the trainers, Bob and Jillian, in shock and disbelief ... And in fact, in the last episode of the season, when Rachel had her final weigh-in at the ranch, she weighed 150 pounds. And so then the finale is six weeks later in real time, so she lost 45 pounds in six weeks at home, and it was a dramatic change, and that's also a very unhealthy change."

The winner of Season 15 of "The Biggest Loser" was revealed last night, as the show usually does, live in front of a cheering crowd. Rachel Frederickson won, going from 260 pounds to a jaw-dropping 105 pounds. See Frederickson's finale pictures here.

But did she actually win? Because 5'4" Rachel is now underweight, according to standard BMI calculations. It was scary and shocking. Note the stunned faces of Bob Harper and Jillian Michaels above, when they saw Rachel on her reveal. Michaels could be heard muttering "oh my God, oh my God," under her breath. Fellow contestant Tanya Winfield on the top right looked horrified. Rachel looked gaunt.

Please understand: in no way do we blame Rachel for going too far in her pursuit to win the title of "Biggest Loser." The contestants have complicated relationships with food that overshadow the show, and while they work through a lot of those issues on camera, they are doing more of it off camera. Rachel is also a former competitive swimmer (three-time state champion,) and obviously thrives on a challenge.

Rachel went from 260 pounds to 150 under the care of a physician at the ranch. Her final weigh-in of 45 pounds below that last night left us wondering: where was the doctor after she left, before the big reveal? Basically, who failed her once she left the ranch and was working, supposedly, on her own?

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Joe Stewart

10 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

Rapid weight loss should never be the goal for long term, sustainable, healthy weight loss.

You're absolutely right. People can diet all they want, but until they learn how to eat properly and use moderation they'll continue to regain the weight time and again.

I read an excellent free report written by IM expert, Jim Edwards, about how he lost 50 pounds. He took the advice of a well known fitness expert, started reducing his portion sizes, added fresh fruits and veggies to his diet and started exercising 6 days per week.

It took him 11 months to be able to run 5 miles per day, but now he's beyond that and does military style training regularly. That's pretty hardcore for a 45 year old.

For anyone who'd like a copy of the report you can get it at the link below or simply Google "How I lost 50 Pounds - Jim Edwards" (without quotes). It's a great read, especially for guys.

REPORT: How I Lost 50 Pounds | Webinar King

Something else I read recently about rapid weight loss vs slow and steady is the amount of loose skin that many people have after losing weight too quickly. I read a few extreme weight loss stories of people that had very similar experiences with a large roll of loose skin.

On the other hand, the people that lost weight gradually (1-2 pounds per week) had much less, if any, loose skin when they reached their weight loss goals. They also learned portion control and most retained those good habits.

Maybe slow and steady really does win the race? At least in the long run.

Getting back on topic, I hope the show does some type of intervention with her and gets her on track to good health. I don't see her as being in a danger zone, but she does need to regain at least 10-15 pounds.

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discrat

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Joe Stewart

Something else I read recently about rapid weight loss vs slow and steady is the amount of loose skin that many people have after losing weight too quickly. I read a few extreme weight loss stories of people that had very similar experiences with a large roll of loose skin.

On the other hand, the people that lost weight gradually (1-2 pounds per week) had much less, if any, loose skin when they reached their weight loss goals. They also learned portion control and most retained those good habits.

Maybe slow and steady really does win the race? At least in the long run.

EHWWWW ! That lose skin stuff is nasty. One Afro-American guy from one of the past seasons showed off his body during the Finale. He looked great other than the 'bitch tits' that remained because of exactly what you point.

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discrat

10 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

Rapid weight loss should never be the goal for long term, sustainable, healthy weight loss. Below are two female Olympian swimmers and as you can see, they do not look gaunt and emaciated. Rachel Frederickson has the look of a woman well on her way to anorexia or another eating disorder.

I sincerely doubt that she will sustain this weight loss. Now off the show and back to ordinary life, once she reduces her physical activity and/or increases her food intake, she will not only regain the weight, but as often happens with rapid weight loss, will gain more than she weighed before the drastic weight loss.

Those first two are hotties, especially the Cal girl ! That last one not so much. Her head is way out of proportion with her body frame.

If this is what we want our women to aspire to look like in our Society then I say No thanks. I'll pass

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by discrat

Those first two are hotties, especially the Cal girl ! That last one not so much. Her head is way out of proportion with her body frame.

If this is what we want our women to aspire to look like in our Society then I say No thanks. I'll pass

That's a very telling trait of someone who is on their way to anorexia or other eating disorder or an unhealthy weight loss. Their heads appear to be too large for their body frames. It's an unhealthy and unattractive look. Their eyes and mouth dominate their faces because their faces have shrunk (the flesh over their skull), but eyes, nose and mouths do not actually get smaller ... so it's all out of proportion.

The first two women are in excellent shape and actually look like Olympic swimmers. Rachel looks nothing like what a fit female athlete looks like.

Season 3 Biggest Loser finalist Kai Hibbard
Bigger Loser Finalist Says Show Gave Her An Eating Disorder

When more than 40 former contestants from “The Biggest Loser” gather Wednesday for a reunion television special, the winner of the program’s first season, Ryan C. Benson, who lost 122 of his 330-pound starting weight, will be absent. Mr. Benson is now back above 300 pounds but he thinks he has been shunned by the show because he publicly admitted that he dropped some of the weight by fasting and dehydrating himself to the point that he was urinating blood.

The series also highlights the difference between the pursuit of engaging television and the sometimes frenzied efforts of contestants to win, perhaps at the risk of their own health. Doctors, nutritionists and physiologists not affiliated with “The Biggest Loser” express doubt about the program’s regimen of severe caloric restriction and up to six hours a day of strenuous exercise, which cause contestants to sometimes lose more than 15 pounds a week.

At least one other contestant has confessed to using dangerous weight-loss techniques, including self-induced dehydration. On the first episode of the current season, two contestants were sent to the hospital, one by airlift after collapsing from heat stroke during a one-mile race.

New contestants are entering the show more out of shape. Each of the last two seasons has broken the record for the heaviest contestant ever, at 454 and 476 pounds.

Medical professionals generally advise against losing more than about two pounds a week. Rapid weight loss can cause many medical problems, including a weakening of the heart muscle, irregular heartbeat and dangerous reductions in potassium and electrolytes.

“I’m waiting for the first person to have a heart attack,” said Dr. Charles Burant, a professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan Health System director of the Michigan Metabolomics and Obesity Center.

On ‘The Biggest Loser,’ Health Can Take Back Seat | Gainesville.com

Some contestants have claimed that dangerous weight loss techniques were common among contestants. Kai Hibbard, who lost 118 pounds and finished as the runner-up in Season 3, has written on her MySpace blog and elsewhere that she and other contestants would drink as little water as possible in the 24 hours before a weigh-in. When the cameras were off, she said, contestants would work out in as much clothing as possible.

Ms. Hibbard, who weighed 144 pounds at the show’s finale, wrote that she added 31 pounds in two weeks, most of it simply by drinking water. That experience is not isolated. Including Mr. Benson, the winners of the first four seasons of the show each have added at least 20 percent to their weight at the end of the show.

Jillian Michaels, one of the two trainers who supervise contestants’ workouts on the series, said the experience of Ms. Hibbard and Mr. Benson was evidence of “the dark side of the show.”

“Contestants can get a little too crazy and they can get too thin,” she said. She said contestants are medically checked and disqualified if they are dehydrated or are found to be taking drugs or diuretics. “That is the worst part of the show,” she said. “ It’s just part of the nature of reality TV.” On ‘The Biggest Loser,’ Health Can Take Back Seat | Gainesville.com

Contestants are required to sign releases that stand out even in the waiver-intensive world of reality television.

One such release, which was provided to The New York Times by a former contestant who did so on the condition of anonymity, says that “no warranty, representation or guarantee has been made as to the qualifications or credentials of the medical professionals who examine me or perform any procedures on me in connection with my participation in the series, or their ability to diagnose medical conditions that may affect my fitness to participate in the series.”

The current season started with five contestants of more than 400 pounds. Yet contestants have been required to sign a document certifying that they believe themselves to be “in excellent physical, emotional, psychological and mental health.” On ‘The Biggest Loser,’ Health Can Take Back Seat | Gainesville.com

Getting contestants to talk openly about the environment of the program is difficult. Shortly after a reporter started contacting former contestants to interview them about their experiences, a talent producer on the series sent an e-mail message to many former contestants reminding them that “serious consequences” could ensue if they ever talked to a reporter without the show’s permission.

To do so could subject them to a fine of $100,000 or $1 million, depending on the timing of the interview, according to the e-mail message, which was obtained by The New York Times. The show’s producers did provide an opportunity to interview several former contestants, but the interviews were conducted with an NBC publicist listening in. On ‘The Biggest Loser,’ Health Can Take Back Seat | Gainesville.com

Molly Carmel, director of Greenlight at Wilkins Center in Greenwich, Conn., said, "It's in no way normal to lose 118 pounds in a 12 week amount of time. Even with surgery, that would be a lot of weight to lose."

Hibbard says she has already gained 70 pounds back and now worries about her body image.

"I left with a very poor mental body image," she told "Early Show" co-anchor Erica Hill. "I found myself loathing what I looked like the more weight I dropped because of the pressure on me. And I found myself doing things like considering coffee a meal. And because of the mentality that I was surrounded with, and the pressure that was given at that show, it was considered acceptable to behave that way."

Hibbard claims that contestants on the show were pressured to exercise even when severely injured, and to diet by dehydration. She says they were also told to ignore the advice of nutritionists and listen to the show's trainers.

"Because of the mentality that I was surrounded with, and the pressure that was given at that show, it was considered acceptable to behave that way. I take full responsibility for everything that I've done. But you can't understand it unless you understand the pressure that was there."

Still, Hibbard says she is proud she was able to inspire people to lose weight, but feels compelled to tell her story now and reclaim the truth.

"I participated in something that I feel is harmful to so many people, so I own responsibility to make it better. I'm not making any money off this. I am not getting anything out of it except for the fact that maybe I'm redeeming myself a little bit for being too much of a coward at that finale." "Biggest Loser" Contestant Kai Hibbard Slams Reality Show, Gained Weight Back - CBS News

Weighty Matters: The Biggest Loser Destroys Participants' Metabolisms

A former "Biggest Loser" contestant is being sued by a fitness firm that reportedly claims she gained "far too much weight" after entering into a contract with them.

Tara Costa, a former plus-size model who appeared on Season 7 of the NBC series, is being sued by FC Online Marketing, Inc. The lawsuit against the former "Biggest Loser" contestant, who lost 155 pounds on the show, was filed July 2 in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida in Tampa.

The plaintiff accuses her of breach of contract and copyright infringement, according to the Tampa Bay Business Journal.

FC claims Costa violated a passage in their contract that states she "agrees to maintain her current level of fitness and conditioning" during the duration of the deal, the Wrap notes. The company had paid $45,000 to Costa's foundation in exchange for her image and likeness, but since she regained the weight, she could no longer represent the brand in photo shoots or public appearances.

"We hired Tara Costa in 2011 to be a spokesperson," Michael Parrella, chief executive of FC, told Newsday. "She came on at a certain weight. We had a fitness clause. She was in material breach after she gained, in my opinion, about 45 pounds. She was supposed to visit 15 of our franchise locations, but we weren't able to send her anywhere because she gained a lot of weight." Tara Costa, 'Biggest Loser' Contestant, Sued Over Weight Gain

nything and everything the producers (the ones making money) want you to think.”

Suzy’s rants started a few days ago, when she uploaded a few photos to her Facebook fan page of herself and other former ‘Biggest Loser’ contestants at “The Diet Show” in New York City last week. Fans commented at how much weight all of the ‘Losers’ had gained since their appearance on the show.

Biggest Loser Contestants after show“How old is this picture? If it’s recent, this is very sad,” one commenter posted under the photo at left, which featured Season 3 winner Eric Chopin, Season 4 winner Bill Germanakos, contestants Friedo Dinten, Tara Costa and others.

Suzy, who ended up marrying the winner of her season, Matt Hoover, took the criticism to heart and stood up for herself and her fellow contestants.

“Yes I’ve gained weight but I can honestly say I am happy and confident and that’s what’s most important,” she wrote.

“Just FYI…. More Biggest Losers gain their weight back than maintain. They are real people. Going [on] TV doesn’t quick fix cure all.”

Suzy, who was a member of Bob Harper‘s team while on the ranch, went on to imply that the contestants are often treated harshly by the show’s fans if they don’t keep the weight off, and that the show doesn’t really prepare its contestants for real life after the cameras go away.

The Ashley has personally interviewed many of the show’s former contestants, many of which admit to using extreme weight loss tactics in order to keep the weight off (and lose more weight) for the season finale, including dehydration, saunas and starvation diets.

“I am not bitter. Just honest. I had a good experience. But truth is truth. Not all losers will tell you all the nitty gritty details,” Suzy wrote on Facebook. “I just want people eyes a bit more open before they are quick to judge and put ‘losers’ on a pedestal.” Former ‘Biggest Loser’ Contestant Blasts Show: “More Biggest Losers Gain Their Weight Back”

'Biggest Loser's' Francelina Morillo talks Jeff Nichols, skin removal surgery and life after the ranch http://www.gofundme.com/4jdfuk

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Kay King

10 years ago

Suzy’s rants started a few days ago

She's interesting in particular. She was on the show in 2005. How did she have average 6.5 lbs a week weight loss for eleven weeks - and 29 lbs on the last week? Those last week weigh ins always make me wonder what's up.

This woman was praising the show in 2009 and 2010 - now she's dissing it. She's had lots of public appearances due to the show - met her husband on the show - and is angry that people now ask why she's gained weight. She seems to want to blame someone from 2005 for her weight today.

Where would she be today if she had not been on the show? She's gained 40+ pounds since losing 90+ lbs in 2005 - how much weight would she have added to her 227 lb initial weight by now if she had not given it a try? Would she now weigh 300 lbs instead of 175?

Of all those complaining, I think she has the weakest case.

I agree people may risk their health being on this show - but I see them as at risk to begin with due to their weight. If they could lose in a less stressful and demanding environment - why don't they? Because some people need that push/shove to do something for themselves. Some people need an audience to motivate them to take any action.

I've always thought you have to be pretty desperate to lose weight to expose yourself like that on national television.

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

She's interesting in particular. She was on the show in 2005. How did she have average 6.5 lbs a week weight loss for eleven weeks - and 29 lbs on the last week? Those last week weigh ins always make me wonder what's up.

This woman was praising the show in 2009 and 2010 - now she's dissing it. She's had lots of public appearances due to the show - met her husband on the show - and is angry that people now ask why she's gained weight. She seems to want to blame someone from 2005 for her weight today.

Where would she be today if she had not been on the show? She's gained 40+ pounds since losing 90+ lbs in 2005 - how much weight would she have added to her 227 lb initial weight by now if she had not given it a try? Would she now weigh 300 lbs instead of 175?

Of all those complaining, I think she has the weakest case.

I agree people may risk their health being on this show - but I see them as at risk to begin with due to their weight. If they could lose in a less stressful and demanding environment - why don't they? Because some people need that push/shove to do something for themselves. Some people need an audience to motivate them to take any action.

I've always thought you have to be pretty desperate to lose weight to expose yourself like that on national television.

Rachel lost 45 lbs in the last 6 weeks. During the "makeover" stage, when she was no longer on the ranch, she lost that without benefit of the show's support and trainers. Real Drs. and dieticians recommend no more than 2 lbs per week for healthy weight loss.

Suzy didn't actually diss the show. She was responding to people's mean comments on her facebook page. This is what she said in the interview and the publisher of the interview implied it was a "rant."

Suzy, who ended up marrying the winner of her season, Matt Hoover, took the criticism to heart and stood up for herself and her fellow contestants.

“Yes I’ve gained weight but I can honestly say I am happy and confident and that’s what’s most important,” she wrote.

“Just FYI…. More Biggest Losers gain their weight back than maintain. They are real people. Going [on] TV doesn’t quick fix cure all.”

Suzy, who was a member of Bob Harper‘s team while on the ranch, went on to imply that the contestants are often treated harshly by the show’s fans if they don’t keep the weight off, and that the show doesn’t really prepare its contestants for real life after the cameras go away.

The Ashley has personally interviewed many of the show’s former contestants, many of which admit to using extreme weight loss tactics in order to keep the weight off (and lose more weight) for the season finale, including dehydration, saunas and starvation diets.

“I am not bitter. Just honest. I had a good experience. But truth is truth. Not all losers will tell you all the nitty gritty details,” Suzy wrote on Facebook. “I just want people eyes a bit more open before they are quick to judge and put ‘losers’ on a pedestal.”

She is not the only one by far who admitted that dehydration and starvation diets was a large part of their weight loss.

I find the shows' release form and threats of lawsuits really interesting:

Quote:
Contestants are required to sign releases that stand out even in the waiver-intensive world of reality television.

One such release, which was provided to The New York Times by a former contestant who did so on the condition of anonymity, says that “no warranty, representation or guarantee has been made as to the qualifications or credentials of the medical professionals who examine me or perform any procedures on me in connection with my participation in the series, or their ability to diagnose medical conditions that may affect my fitness to participate in the series.”

The current season started with five contestants of more than 400 pounds. Yet contestants have been required to sign a document certifying that they believe themselves to be “in excellent physical, emotional, psychological and mental health.” On ‘The Biggest Loser,’ Health Can Take Back Seat | Gainesville.com
Quote:
Getting contestants to talk openly about the environment of the program is difficult. Shortly after a reporter started contacting former contestants to interview them about their experiences, a talent producer on the series sent an e-mail message to many former contestants reminding them that “serious consequences” could ensue if they ever talked to a reporter without the show’s permission.

To do so could subject them to a fine of $100,000 or $1 million, depending on the timing of the interview, according to the e-mail message, which was obtained by The New York Times. The show’s producers did provide an opportunity to interview several former contestants, but the interviews were conducted with an NBC publicist listening in. On ‘The Biggest Loser,’ Health Can Take Back Seat | Gainesville.com

I'd also be interested in seeing the "after" photos of those who have fast, extreme weight loss without the benefit of being stuffed into a spandex undergarment. Anyone who loses that kind of weight is going to have a ton of excess skin which will need plastic surgery (not covered by insurance) to have a decent looking body in the nude or in a swimsuit or any kind of revealing clothing. Francelina Morillo (in the photo) talks about that and how she has a gofundme plea for money for excess skin removal because she cannot afford it. Help Biggest Loser Francy Get Surgery by Francelina Morillo - GoFundMe No amount of exercise will eliminate overstretched skin. There was a woman on Dr. Phil one day who wore very loose clothing and would not allow her husband to see her undressed ... at all ... because she went on a diet and lost a bunch of weight and was left with hideous excess skin. She said that she wished she had never lost it. Dr. Phil had her examined on the show (in private) to see if the problem was as bad as she said it was ... it was, and Dr. Phil paid for the surgery. Dr. Phils' show is a bunch of crap, but this woman's emotional pain was very real.

Interview with Bob Harper about excess skin surgery of the contestants
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn...020502786.html

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Kay King

10 years ago

the last 6 weeks

That part of the show is concerning. I know the idea is to monitor the people as they move back to their regular lives but at the same time they are looking at the finish line with a pot of money sitting there.

That's when I would expect some of the contestants to cheat with diuretics or laxatives trying to counter eating the wrong foods or whatever. In recent series years, the audience doesn't see much of that part.

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

That part of the show is concerning. I know the idea is to monitor the people as they move back to their regular lives but at the same time they are looking at the finish line with a pot of money sitting there.

That's when I would expect some of the contestants to cheat with diuretics or laxatives trying to counter eating the wrong foods or whatever. In recent series years, the audience doesn't see much of that part.

Having a big part of weight loss being the result of dehydration is only one part of the dangers of this type of weight loss. Rapid weight loss even without dehydration can cause a lot of health problems, such as heart disease.

The thing is ... the contestants who are motivated by the prize money more than by accomplishing a healthy weight, will be highly likely to gain it all back and stop all the exercising they were doing when the money motivation is over. Those that are motivated by health and healthy weight loss will be the ones most likely to maintain at least most or a large enough amount of the weight loss.

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Floyd Fisher

10 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

Having a big part of weight loss being the result of dehydration is only one part of the dangers of this type of weight loss. Rapid weight loss even without dehydration can cause a lot of health problems, such as heart disease.

The thing is ... the contestants who are motivated by the prize money more than by accomplishing a healthy weight, will be highly likely to gain it all back and stop all the exercising they were doing when the money motivation is over. Those that are motivated by health and healthy weight loss will be the ones most likely to maintain at least most or a large enough amount of the weight loss.

This is why I think the whole premise needs to be rethought.

If you dehydrate yourself to lose weight, or binge and purge, I can almost guarantee it will show up when you perform poorly on an actual fitness test.

It would cut out all that crap, and push a real competition, with winners that are actually healthy, instead of looking like bags of bones.

In fact, I would cheer a season where the winner didn't lose an ounce, but at the end looked like Lou Ferrigno instead....now that is a true winner to me.

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discrat

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Floyd Fisher

This is why I think the whole premise needs to be rethought.

If you dehydrate yourself to lose weight, or binge and purge, I can almost guarantee it will show up when you perform poorly on an actual fitness test.

It would cut out all that crap, and push a real competition, with winners that are actually healthy, instead of looking like bags of bones.

In fact, I would cheer a season where the winner didn't lose an ounce, but at the end looked like Lou Ferrigno instead....now that is a true winner to me.

I hear you, Floyd. But they do have running competitions and sprints and strength competitions.

Maybe not to the extent you are implying.

If you tried to make fitness equal to the weight loss as far as who wins how would you go about it ?

The weight loss is based on relativity( percentage weight loss). Not sure how you could implement that with fitness.

Maybe on day 1 you could get them to time their mile run. And then at the end of show time it again.

The one with the most improved time percentage wise is the winner.

Maybe it could work, I dont know.

Btw, I would not like some of those women looking like Ferrigno or Schwarzenegger.

In their hey days those guys were pumped up but also pumped up on 'Roids.

Steroids and people do not mix well. In particular steroids and women.

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Floyd Fisher

10 years ago

Originally Posted by discrat

I hear you, Floyd. But they do have running competitions and sprints and strength competitions.

Maybe not to the extent you are implying.

If you tried to make fitness equal to the weight loss as far as who wins how would you go about it ?

The weight loss is based on relativity( percentage weight loss). Not sure how you could implement that with fitness.

Maybe on day 1 you could get them to time their mile run. And then at the end of show time it again.

The one with the most improved time percentage wise is the winner.

Maybe it could work, I dont know.

Btw, I would not like some of those women looking like Ferrigno or Schwarzenegger.

In their hey days those guys were pumped up but also pumped up on 'Roids.

Steroids and people do not mix well. In particular steroids and women.

How would I go about making the two equal....well, I would simply rip off the USN fitness test, and use that to score people (it already has a number score, so it's tailor made for my idea). Add that fitness score to the amount of weight lost, and you have what I will call a 'biggest loser' score.

Not the fairest way, but it's a start in the right direction.

As far as Ferrigno and Schwarzenegger are concerned, yeah I know they did 'roids....but can anyone in this thread tell me who Dorian Yates or Lee Priest are? Thought so.

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discrat

10 years ago

Originally Posted by Floyd Fisher

How would I go about making the two equal....well, I would simply rip off the USN fitness test, and use that to score people (it already has a number score, so it's tailor made for my idea). Add that fitness score to the amount of weight lost, and you have what I will call a 'biggest loser' score.

Not the fairest way, but it's a start in the right direction.

As far as Ferrigno and Schwarzenegger are concerned, yeah I know they did 'roids....but can anyone in this thread tell me who Dorian Yates or Lee Priest are? Thought so.

Yeah Yates is from Great Britain, right ? And didn't he beat out Haney's/Schwarzenegger's
number of Mr. Olympias record ?

I know of heard of Priest but couldn't tell you any thing about him.

I really grew up in the era of Haney as far as bodybuilding and I also did powerlifting.

I grew tired of body building way back then but always loved power lifting and the Clean and Jerk in the Olympic Lifts.

As you get older though building up mass , at least for me, is something you grow out of. Keeping lean muscle and building cardio is the only thing I really go for these days.

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Kay King

10 years ago

True - losing weight too fast can be risky. But - walking around at 300+ pounds is risky, too.

It's a bad or worse scenario. I think this show gives people a jump start if they want it. I think after the first couple of big numbers the weight loss seems about right for people who are focused on calories and hours of exercise daily.

On the good side, most who have re-gained weight haven't gained all the weight back. I think in the end - it's easy to give up donuts and fast food when you are on a TV show and people are watching you.

Not so easy to give up donuts for life when no one is looking. These people did not become morbidly obese by living a healthy life and quite a few won't maintain the food and exercise habits they learned on the show.

They go on the show because they want to lose weight. They lose weight on the show. I don't buy into the "show owes me more" mentality that I see some of them have. That's what I'm resistant to, I guess.

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by Kay King

True - losing weight too fast can be risky. But - walking around at 300+ pounds is risky, too.

That doesn't give a multi-million dollar business enterprise a free pass to exploit people with a health problem for their own personal financial gain and attempt to exonerate themselves with a medical release.

One such release, which was provided to The New York Times by a former contestant who did so on the condition of anonymity, says that "no warranty, representation or guarantee has been made as to the qualifications or credentials of the medical professionals who examine me or perform any procedures on me in connection with my participation in the series, or their ability to diagnose medical conditions that may affect my fitness to participate in the series.

When some on the show die from heart failure after being encouraged to limit water and ignore the dieticians on the show so they will have maximum weight loss, we'll see how much protection from lawsuits that release really affords them.

That show could care less about the health of the contestants. It's apparently lucrative to get a bunch of fatties together and incentivize unhealthy, rapid weight loss. Apparently, some idiots think that's good TV. It also has spawned a licensed merchandise business that will generate an estimated $100 million this year.

It really makes no sense to me to replace one health risk with other health risks in the name of entertainment and profits.

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Kay King

10 years ago

I agree to some extent - but also true that any business has to cover every contingency in legalities to protect from lawsuits. The standard response to anyone complaining about a business or a service or a product is "sue them".

A TV show can't exploit people who aren't willing to be used. These are adults and they bear some responsibility. I've seen trainers on the show chew people out for not drinking enough water so I'm not sure I buy the dehydration issue.

I think this show is uncomfortable because the truth is if you are morbidly obese there is no easy cure. "Easy cures" are what we like. We'd like to think a "fat ranch" can issue a pill and gentle reminders and the weight will fall of - it won't.

We talk about someone going into "drug rehab" but seldom see the agony of withdrawal they can go through.

People addicted to food go through withdrawal, too. The alternative to losing weight for someone morbidly obese - is an early death. How many morbidly obese old people do you know?

Could it be if you are way fat - you can blame everything bad in your life on your weight? If you lose weight and your life doesn't become a fairy tale - you've lost your excuse....it's a complex issue.

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discrat

10 years ago

It is a fact that food is the most highly and widespread addictive consumptive substance there is.

You can put Cocaine, heroine, Meth and others and put them all together and would not even come close to the extent food addiction has been in terms of destruction of human lives on a widespread basis.

Indirectly, food consumption ( or the excess of it) has been the number 1 killer of Americans for quite some time now.

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Joe Stewart

10 years ago

Originally Posted by discrat

It is a fact that food is the most highly and widespread addictive consumptive substance there is.

You can put Cocaine, heroine, Meth and others and put them all together and would not even come close to the extent food addiction has been in terms of destruction of human lives on a widespread basis.

Indirectly, food consumption ( or the excess of it) has been the number 1 killer of Americans for quite some time now.

Yep. Salt, sugar and fat are the main culprits. Most companies also use flavor enhancers as well, some natural, some artificial. The competition in the food market is fierce and these people will do just about anything "legally" to try and get the upper hand.

Although it does seem unethical and many people feel that it shouldn't be allowed, it's really no different than other addictive substances. There's an awful lot of beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco and other things that are addictive as well and can be purchased freely over the counter by anyone of legal age.

Unfortunately, there is no legal age limit for purchasing junk food and that's become a major factor in childhood obesity. Of course, poverty is another factor as well. Eating healthy is becoming more and more expensive and many people simply can't afford it.

In addition, we're being bombarded with advertising from every direction and junk food has become much easier to get. We have the Food Network now, too. Shows like "Man vs Food", "Diners, Drive-In's & Dives" and more have become household favorites for many families, including mine.

When we first moved into where we live 6 years ago there were pizza, mexican food and bbq joints within a 2-4 minute walking distance. Now there's also a coffee shop that serves pastries, smoothies, etc and a Mcdonald's across the street. In addition, the grocery store on the other side of the street did a major makeover and now serves hot food, cold sandwiches, fried chicken AND put in a bakery! They have fresh hot donuts at 6:00 AM every day. Oh, and there's a 7/11 too that's open all night.

The temptations are endless!

That being said, it all really comes down to making healthier choices. Society has made things more difficult, but we still have the ability to say no, the ability to count calories, the ability to exercise regularly, etc.

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by Joe Stewart

Yep. Salt, sugar and fat are the main culprits. Most companies also use flavor enhancers as well, some natural, some artificial. The competition in the food market is fierce and these people will do just about anything "legally" to try and get the upper hand.

Although it does seem unethical and many people feel that it shouldn't be allowed, it's really no different than other addictive substances. There's an awful lot of beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco and other things that are addictive as well and can be purchased freely over the counter by anyone of legal age.

Unfortunately, there is no legal age limit for purchasing junk food and that's become a major factor in childhood obesity. Of course, poverty is another factor as well. Eating healthy is becoming more and more expensive and many people simply can't afford it.

Honestly, I don't care about obesity .... at least not in the way that I feel that I am or that there should be "food police." I think it's up to people to decide what and how much they will eat. People make both healthy and unhealthy choices all the time.

The thing that gets me is all the "reality TV." Have no clue why anyone would be interested in watching fat people lose weight. I also don't watch the superficial, bitchy real housewives of [insert city/state here]. Or Party down South, which just seems like white trash misbehaving. I think Reality TV has been the decline of real entertainment on TV ... you know .... things like homicide and mobsters and meth cooks... lol. That's my kind of TV.

I'd rather watch paint dry than watch people lose weight. Why not a reality TV show about someone quitting smoking. You can tape them just pacing around, wringing their hands and eating lollipops to replace the cigarette in their mouth. Sounds like fun, huh?

I don't get it ... the fascination with this crap and I still think it's very questionable ethics in a show that provides a monetary incentive to do something that is well known to be dangerous ... rapid weight loss. I was looking over the website for My 600 lb. life. At least that one is heavily supervised by real physicians due to the enormous risk and amount of weight that is needed to be lost. Would I watch it? No. Not interested in watching people's health problems ... unless Dr. House is the Dr.

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Joe Stewart

10 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I think it's up to people to decide what and how much they will eat. People make both healthy and unhealthy choices all the time.

You're absolutely right.

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

The thing that gets me is all the "reality TV." Have no clue why anyone would be interested in watching fat people lose weight.

The target audience has to be other obese individuals. Watching others do something can help others find the belief and motivation to take action themselves.

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I also don't watch the superficial, bitchy real housewives of [insert city/state here]. Or Party down South, which just seems like white trash misbehaving.

I hate that stuff too.

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I think Reality TV has been the decline of real entertainment on TV ... you know .... things like homicide and mobsters and meth cooks... lol. That's my kind of TV.

I hear ya'. Maybe they could find a happy medium? You know, a plot where a guy only kills people after dinner? Or maybe one about how successful weight loss can be achieved by simply doing up a fat line of meth?

Yeah, I know that's really bad! But you started it! LOL

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I'd rather watch paint dry than watch people lose weight. Why not a reality TV show about someone quitting smoking. You can tape them just pacing around, wringing their hands and eating lollipops to replace the cigarette in their mouth. Sounds like fun, huh?

Actually, I've quit smoking (after 31 years) and quit drinking (along with other stupid things) several years ago. It really wasn't as hard as I thought it was going to be, though I did develop some poor eating habits. It wouldn't be nearly as exciting to watch as you might think. :-)

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I don't get it ... the fascination with this crap and I still think it's very questionable ethics in a show that provides a monetary incentive to do something that is well known to be dangerous ... rapid weight loss.

I agree.

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I was looking over the website for My 600 lb. life. At least that one is heavily supervised by real physicians due to the enormous risk and amount of weight that is needed to be lost. Would I watch it? No. Not interested in watching people's health problems ... unless Dr. House is the Dr.

I see. You'd only be okay with the subject matter as long as the Dr. was in the "House"?

You're too funny. LOL

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by Joe Stewart

I hear ya'. Maybe they could find a happy medium? You know, a plot where a guy only kills people after dinner? Or maybe one about how successful weight loss can be achieved by simply doing up a fat line of meth?

Yeah, I know that's really bad! But you started it! LOL

Yeah ... that's starting to sound more entertaining. lol. I also loved the suburban housewife pot grower in "Weeds." The Sopranos, Breaking Bad, and all the true crime shows ... love it. Obese people losing weight ... not so much. :p

Originally Posted by Joe Stewart

Actually, I've quit smoking (after 31 years) and quit drinking (along with other stupid things) several years ago. It really wasn't as hard as I thought it was going to be, though I did develop some poor eating habits. It wouldn't be nearly as exciting to watch as you might think. :-)

I quit drinking over 20 years ago and other addictive stuff. I quit smoking a month ago and am still struggling with a bad attitude over it.

Originally Posted by Joe Stewart

I see. You'd only be okay with the subject matter as long as the Dr. was in the "House"?

You're too funny. LOL

Yes. Not interested in real people's real health issues. Only interested in a somewhat cranky but interesting and sexy in a messy sort of way doctor. I'd volunteer to be his patient any time.

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Joe Stewart

10 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I quit drinking over 20 years ago and other addictive stuff. I quit smoking a month ago and am still struggling with a bad attitude over it.

That's awesome! When I quit smoking I bought this Trident gum with the liquid center and chewed one whenever I had a craving. That sudden liquid burst of peppermint knocked it out instantly. The only thing I wanted after that was water. It really helps.

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

Yes. Not interested in real people's real health issues. Only interested in a somewhat cranky but interesting and sexy in a messy sort of way doctor. I'd volunteer to be his patient any time.

Haha...I think that most of us have at least 1-2 actors/actresses that raise our blood pressure a little. My wife is infatuated with Sam Elliott and the late Patrick Swayze. I happen to like the short, petite, gentle, more mature types. Jewel, Lori Petty (A League of Their Own & Point Break), Mary Stuart Masterson (Fried Green Tomatoes), Linda Hamilton. Uh-huh.

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by Joe Stewart

That's awesome! When I quit smoking I bought this Trident gum with the liquid center and chewed one whenever I had a craving. That sudden liquid burst of peppermint knocked it out instantly. The only thing I wanted after that was water. It really helps.

Thanks for that tip. I need something like that and will give it a try.

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bizgrower 10 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I quit drinking over 20 years ago and other addictive stuff. I quit smoking a month ago and am still struggling with a bad attitude over it.

Does this mean an avatar change is forthcoming?
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- sbucciarel Banned 10 years ago
  
  Originally Posted by bizgrower
  
  Does this mean an avatar change is forthcoming?
  
  lol .... don't bet on that one. I don't want to change too much.
  
  Thanks
  
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discrat

10 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

Honestly, I don't care about obesity .... at least not in the way that I feel that I am or that there should be "food police." I think it's up to people to decide what and how much they will eat. People make both healthy and unhealthy choices all the time.

The thing that gets me is all the "reality TV." Have no clue why anyone would be interested in watching fat people lose weight. I also don't watch the superficial, bitchy real housewives of [insert city/state here]. Or Party down South, which just seems like white trash misbehaving. I think Reality TV has been the decline of real entertainment on TV ... you know .... things like homicide and mobsters and meth cooks... lol. That's my kind of TV.

I'd rather watch paint dry than watch people lose weight. Why not a reality TV show about someone quitting smoking. You can tape them just pacing around, wringing their hands and eating lollipops to replace the cigarette in their mouth. Sounds like fun, huh?

I don't get it ... the fascination with this crap and I still think it's very questionable ethics in a show that provides a monetary incentive to do something that is well known to be dangerous ... rapid weight loss. I was looking over the website for My 600 lb. life. At least that one is heavily supervised by real physicians due to the enormous risk and amount of weight that is needed to be lost. Would I watch it? No. Not interested in watching people's health problems ... unless Dr. House is the Dr.

Funny, I feel the same way. Iam a health nut but this show is boring. My wife and Mother in Law cannot get enough of it. I do not get it.

That being said I will watch an episode or two and of course the finale with my wife just to see her happy that Iam beside her.

But then she makes it up to me as she watches DVD series of 'Breaking Bad' (after which we are on the 4th season this weekend

) Good stuff.

Oh yeah I could not believe a week ago when my Wife bought home 'Bad Grandpa'. I have never done this before watching a Movie.............but I was laughing so hard I started to cry at this movie and thought a vessel in my brain had broken because I became dizzy from hysteria lol . Iam serious!

It wasn't her kind of movie as she already knew beforehand.

So watching Biggest Loser has its benefits for me :>)

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sbucciarel

Banned 10 years ago

Originally Posted by discrat

Funny, I feel the same way. Iam a health nut but this show is boring. My wife and Mother in Law cannot get enough of it. I do not get it.

That being said I will watch an episode or two and of course the finale with my wife just to see her happy that Iam beside her.

But then she makes it up to me as she watches DVD series of 'Breaking Bad' (after which we are on the 4th season this weekend

) Good stuff.

Oh yeah I could not believe a week ago when my Wife bought home 'Bad Grandpa'. I have never done this before watching a Movie.............but I was laughing so hard I started to cry at this movie and thought a vessel in my brain had broken because I became dizzy from hysteria lol . Iam serious!

It wasn't her kind of movie as she already knew.

So watching Biggest Loser has its benefits for me :>)

About a month ago, we had Marathon Breaking Bad from the first show to the last one in sequence that took 3 days to air the whole thing. I watched the whole series. I felt like an addict coming off a binge. I couldn't stop watching until it was over. I was actually both glad I watched the whole thing and glad it was over. I watch very little TV, but have bought the DVD sets and will watch it again at a slower pace next time.

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discrat

10 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

About a month ago, we had Marathon Breaking Bad from the first show to the last one in sequence that took 3 days to air the whole thing. I watched the whole series. I felt like an addict coming off a binge. I couldn't stop watching until it was over. I was actually both glad I watched the whole thing and glad it was over. I watch very little TV, but have bought the DVD sets and will watch it again at a slower pace next time.

Yep it is something, once you watch you can't stop.

My Mom sent me the DVD series. My dad who will be 85 this year and Mom (will be 79) watched the whole thing in about a month. And they are still going back over the 5th season because they cannot remember all of it lol

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Floyd Fisher 8 years ago

I'm taking the time to bump this thread, because a new bombshell has me thinking it's high time the show got cancelled.

Forget anorexia, now they are feeding the contestants dangerous and illegal drugs to lose weight. Link to story below:

‘Biggest Loser’ drugged us so we’d lose weight | New York Post

Here's the skinny on ephedra (banned by the FTC in 2004):

https://nccih.nih.gov/health/ephedra

Here's information on Adderall:

Adderall oral : Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD

After hearing about this, if Comcast (NBC's parent company) doesn't pull the plug on this show, I'm tempted to lead the pitchfork and torch march on their HQ and see if I can get a drug test done on the CEO. This absolutely has to stop before someone gets killed.
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Kay King 8 years ago

The problem is claims like this usually come from those who did not WIN on the show - and who gained the weight back.

I don't believe you go from a size 4 to the weight that woman is at now - without stuffing your face quite often. Yes, genetics and metabolism may cause you to gain some weight back - but if you have gone back to "obese"...there was quite a bit of eating involved, too. Let's get real.

What surprises me is that people believe this sort of 'reality' show doesn't have some tricks up their sleeve. Ephedra is a potent appetite suppressant - but a few people were overdosing on it years ago and that's why it was banned. In large doses, ephedra can cause irregular heartbeat. Also, pharma companies wanted it banned as it was a cheap alternative to their own expensive diet pills...everything has a story behind it.

"Yellow Jackets" were sold in health food stores and vitamin stores - they were frequently used by gym rats for the energy burst they provided. They were an appetite suppressant but not very strong. I've taken them myself for energy.

I don't doubt the show uses some questionable methods - my distaste is for people who participate - do what they are told - and then blame others if they don't win or don't keep the weight off. If they are uncomfortable with what they are asked to do - they can quit. They could also raise these issues when they happen - instead of months or years later.

Sorry if I sound callous. There are so many people in the world facing real problems outside their control - I don't have a lot of sympathy for people who participate in a silly weight loss TV show and then complain after the fact.
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agmccall

8 years ago

Originally Posted by discrat

I could see it on many of the contestants faces, and I think even Jillian was blown away.

She went from 260 lbs to 105 lbs. She really looked like one of those poster images of a young girl suffering this terrible disease.

Originally Posted by Kay King

On the one hand - even the coaches looked at each other in a "WTF" way when she walked out.

Why were the contestants and coaches surprised? Weren't they part of the whole transformation from beginning to end.

al

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Floyd Fisher 8 years ago

Originally Posted by agmccall

Why were the contestants and coaches surprised? Weren't they part of the whole transformation from beginning to end.

al

There is a period of time where they go home and are no longer under their supervision. until the show finale....that's why they were all looking at each other.

To be honest, I'm past fixing this show, and want it cancelled before someone dies.
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BIG Mike

Banned 8 years ago

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Kurt 8 years ago

Originally Posted by BIG Mike

Do you guys really sit around and watch people lose weight? LOL....

I haven't seen the show, but it has to beat sitting around and watching Claude gain weight. The thing he seems to be good at losing is his hair
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- positivenegative 8 years ago
  
  Originally Posted by Kurt
  
  ...it has to beat sitting around and watching Claude gain weight. The thing he seems to be good at losing is his hair
  
  That happened quite young though. Occupational hazard I think you'll find.
  
  Bit of a sucker you might say.
  
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The Biggest Loser winner.....Oh my gosh really disturbing!

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