So, today I was on Facebook, and saw a YouTube post from a fellow personal trainer, and I couldn't help but write about my 2 cents on issue.  It was t.v. clip from CBS news, interviewing former contestant, Kai Hibbard, from the very popular show, "The Biggest Loser".

Now, before I go on, I have to say I have always had mixed reviews about the show.  Mainly because of the mixed messages sent out to the public.

On one hand, I absolutely LOVE the message that if you eat healthy and live an active lifestyle, you will not only look good physically, but, you will also get more out of life for the simply fact that your are more fit to do more things.  They show what obesity can lead to in a worst case scenario.  Before joining the show, many of the contestants were in risk of heart disease, heart attacks/strokes, diabetes, joint problems, and even death!  I'm sure the show is responsible for actually saving a lot of lives!  They've also been able to help motivate hundreds of thousands, if not MILLIONS, of people to become more active and health conscious.  I really applaud them for this.

BUT, on the other hand, as a fitness professional, I've ALWAYS KNOWN that a lot of the results shown on the show were "made for tv."  Basic fat loss science states that a "safe" amount of fat-pounds to lose each week is 1-2 lbs.  This will allow the body to safely adapt to decrease in fat and increase in activity.

In the video, Kai talks about how there was immense pressure from the tv executives for them to lose as much "weight" as possible for the weign-ins.  She also discusses dehydration to manipulate the scale, poor mental body image, etc.

Keep in mind, this is based on her personal experience with the show.  I'm sure that a lot of contestants had very positive experiences.

In any case, if you - or anybody you know - is in need of losing body fat in order to get to a healthy weight, I HIGHLY SUGGEST that you consult the services of a physician, fitness trainer or any other qualified health expert/professional.  Make sure to educate yourself!  Don't rely on what you "see on t.v."

As much of a positive influence the Biggest Loser has had on inspiring others to be more healthy, I can't help but question whether or not their portrayal of fat loss is the best way to go.  Let's be real now, losing 10-20 lbs a week (sometimes MORE) is NOT normal!  If what they portray is not an accurate depiction of fat loss, who is the REAL Biggest Loser?

This has always been a controversy with the show, but, I'll let you make up your mind for yourself.  Check out her interview here: