Hello,

As someone who has recovered from an eating disorder and now works as a counsellor for those who are still struggling, I am shocked to see that this programme has been created, let alone aired.

Many of the messages within this show are symptomatic of disordered eating, such as the need to burn off every calorie you eat, choosing foods according to their calorific content and denying yourself what you actually want, even in a supposedly pleasurable and relaxing environment (i. e. a restaurant with family and friends). It also perpetuates the outdated notion that there are 'good' and 'bad' foods and attaches moral value to those who choose foods which are 'healthier' and lower in calories.

I am very lucky to be at a point in my recovery where this did not affect my eating behaviours or trigger me personally, however, a couple of years ago, this could easily have thrown me back into very harmful thoughts and behaviours around food and my body.

It really concerns me that this programme could have a very negative impact on those still in recovery, or anyone with any issues around food. I feel it would be very beneficial and helpful for the programme to be removed from BBC iPlayer. 

Instead of broadcasting programmes like this, we should be spreading messages such as body acceptance and how to have a peaceful relationship with food. This will have a much kinder impact on it’s viewers and reduce all these stressful feelings we have around eating, which is truly harmful for our health. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you feel compelled to sign :)