Response from stem4 & CEO / Clinical Psychologist Dr Nihara Krause
As a teenage charity supporting young people with their mental health, including eating disorders, stem4 are saddened by the BBC production ‘The Restaurants That Burns Calories’. The show not only promotes the irresponsible message that you can burn off every calorie consumed but also promotes calorie counting and provides vulnerable young people with an incorrect message about balancing food energy input with exercise output – a core problem in eating disorders.
At this particular time during the COVID-19 pandemic, young people with eating disorders are very anxious about the disruption to their regular support and treatment due to services being suspended. They may also be experiencing delayed access to treatment. The airing of this programme puts these individuals at further risk. Similarly, at a time where there is so much unscientific information available, many young people may refer to the BBC as a credible resource. It is highly disappointing, therefore, that this programme has been aired.
We would strongly advise the BBC to withdraw further episodes and think strongly about the impact of their messaging in terms of it’s effect on young people’s mental health in general and in those with existing mental health problems