.jpg)
I wish I had a nickel every time someone asked me my opinion of the show “The Biggest Loser”. Truthfully, I’ve only half watched the show a few times. By half watching, I mean that I was multi tasking on my laptop and only looked up when drama was occurring. Which is exactly what my answer is when asked what I think? Drama, extremes, controversy and exaggerations sell and get people’s attention. Seriously, would you watch a show called “Regain Your Health and Lose a Pound a Week”? Not so much.So to hear the latest and greatest, doesn’t surprise me a bit. Season 3 “Biggest Loser” contestant Kai Hibbard although very grateful that she’s inspired many, has decided to put her family at financial risk and come out with statements that display the deceptiveness of the show. It only makes sense doesn’t it? The crazy weight loss numbers that are revealed can only happen as a result of extreme unrealistic circumstances which are supported by Kai claims that she was taught how to dehydrate herself. She also revealed that there were times that more than a week went by between shows in order to make the results appear more dramatic.
I don’t know exactly how much the contestants exercise each day at the ranch, but I’m guessing that it far exceeds healthy realistic limits. To me, the proof is in the pudding. Don’t ya love that little cliché? Although I’m sure that the show accomplishes it’s goal by entertaining and inspiring many folks, the methods and practices used for weight loss are not realistic and sustainable. In fact, very few of the former contestants have maintained their weight loss. Kai gained back 70 and is just one of the many who has gained back half or more of what they lost.
So what are your thoughts? If you haven’t already seen her spot on the CBS Early Show, check out the video below and tell us what you think in the comment section.
fascinating. Thanks Deb for sharing this information.
It is unfortunate that without major drama or extreme results tv ratings plummet… so it goes with all the "Reality Shows".
The good that has come out of show like the Biggest Loser is I have personally known people who it has motivated to get out and start moving. That simple piece has started them on the road to weight loss over time with exercise and of course diet follows right behind that.
It falls on people like "us" to educate others that it takes time, tenacity, and a lifestyle change that becomes just what you do every day to continue to lose weight or maintain the weight that one has lost.
It is understandable that these people on the show have gained weight back considering the "fast" methods that were used. I think the important thing to focus on is to not use it as an excuse to keep on gaining … i.e these people did me wrong… but instead to get on the exercise and diet program and go after losing that weight the right way and keeping it off over time.
I always try to coach people (and their dogs!) to look at what you CAN DO right now today… rather than what went wrong or what isn't right about what happened yesterday. 🙂
Thanks for the great points K9 Coach! Focusing on what you can do today is so important. Don’t they say…”Today is a gift, that why it’s called The Present”…
I think I've only watched the show once. It definitely makes for great TV, but when you hear stories like this, you wonder how many contestants' health has been jeopardized for it.
@FatFighterTV I know, really makes you wonder? Even though they’re under medical supervision that type of excessive exercise stress, huge weight fluctuations and the crash dieting seems to be more harmful than good for their health.