The Biggest Loser Exposed - Contestant Recalls Near-Death Experience on Weight Loss Reality Show

A new Netflix documentary has shed light on the hidden dangers behind one of television’s most infamous weight loss shows, leaving viewers shocked and disturbed.

Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser, a three-part docuseries, explores the darker side of the hit competition that ran from 2004 to 2016. It features former contestants who reveal the extreme measures and health risks they endured in the pursuit of rapid weight loss, including one woman who claims she nearly died during her first challenge.

What was The Biggest Loser?

The American reality series followed overweight and obese contestants as they competed over 30 weeks to lose the highest percentage of body weight. The winner would walk away with a large cash prize, while viewers were promised inspiring stories of transformation.

Behind the scenes, however, the show became controversial for its methods. Health experts told LiveScience that "the show's focus on competitive weight loss is, at best, counterproductive and, at worst, dangerous." Despite disclaimers claiming that contestants were supervised by doctors and placed on customized regimens, multiple participants have since shared troubling accounts.

Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser, a three-part docuseries, explores the darker side of the hit competition that ran from 2004 to 2016.

Tracey Yukich’s Terrifying Experience

One of the voices featured in the Netflix series is Tracey Yukich, a contestant from season eight who says the show nearly cost her life.

"The idea of being on The Biggest Loser, I felt like maybe it would fix my marriage, maybe it would fix me," Tracey shared in the documentary. "Maybe it would make me a better mom, a better friend."

Believing the program could transform her life, Tracey entered the competition full of hope. However, during her very first challenge, she faced a devastating health crisis.

Contestants were dropped off at a beach and told to run a mile to secure their place on the show. "In my head, I’m like, 'I can run, I’ve got four kids, I’m running after them all the time.' But it was the longest mile ever," she recalled.

Minutes into the run, Tracey’s legs felt "like lead," and her body began to shut down. Footage in the documentary shows her collapsing on the sand as medical staff rushed to her aid. She was declared unresponsive and airlifted to a nearby hospital.

"I just felt like I was floating," she said. "And then my grandpa was there, and then I saw darkness, but then I saw light, so I knew I died that day."

It's also important to consider the psychological impact of the rapid weight loss often seen on these shows. According to Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and author, "Rapid weight loss can lead to significant emotional distress, including mood swings and irritability, which can further complicate the weight loss journey." In a high-pressure environment like reality TV, these psychological issues may be exacerbated, leading to disordered eating behaviors. For more insights, visit her professional website at Angela Duckworth.

The American reality series followed overweight and obese contestants as they competed over 30 weeks to lose the highest percentage of body weight.

Netflix

Doctors diagnosed Tracey with rhabdomyolysis, a dangerous condition in which the body begins to break down muscle tissue, releasing toxins that can damage vital organs. "It started with my liver, then it was in my kidneys, and then it goes to your heart. And that's where I almost died," she explained.

Although the show’s medical team advised her to go home, Tracey pushed to remain in the competition. Trainers pushed her even harder; however, she eventually followed the on-site medical advisor’s guidance.

One of the voices featured in the Netflix series is Tracey Yukich, a contestant from season eight who says the show nearly cost her life.

Netflix

Viewers React to Netflix’s Exposé

Since the documentary’s release, outraged viewers have taken to social media to call out the show’s producers and trainers for what they see as reckless and dangerous practices.

One person wrote: "I am watching Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser on Netflix. They were barely eating, exercising for 8+ hours a day. Bob and Jillian were crazy. One contestant almost died, and Jillian and Bob were upset she was listening to the doctor instead of exercising. SHE ALMOST DIED!"

Doctors Diagnosed Tracey with Rhabdomyolysis, a Dangerous Condition in Which the Body Begins to Break Down Muscle Tissue, Releasing Toxins That Can Damage Vital Organs

Netflix

Understanding the Psychology of Extreme Weight Loss

The extreme measures taken by contestants on weight loss shows can be viewed through the lens of the psychological theory of self-determination. This theory posits that individuals are more likely to engage in health-promoting behaviors when they feel autonomously motivated—meaning they genuinely want to engage in the behavior for its own sake, rather than feeling externally compelled to do so. As Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, states, "When people feel pressured or judged, it can lead to a negative relationship with their health choices." The intense pressure and public scrutiny contestants face may significantly undermine this autonomous motivation, leading to an unhealthy relationship with exercise and food.

Another viewer added: "Have y'all seen Fit for TV? They had a contestant gain weight before she got on the show. Working out for 8 hours. WHO WORKS OUT THAT LONG? One almost died. Trainers ignored the doctor. A lot going on."

The documentary has sparked renewed conversations about the dangers of extreme weight loss programs, both on and off screen, and the lasting toll reality television can take on its contestants.

The Role of Media in Shaping Body Image and Weight Perception

Reality television shows like 'The Biggest Loser' can contribute to societal norms and expectations around weight and body image. From a social psychology perspective, media portrayals can influence perceptions and create unrealistic standards (Grabe, Ward, & Hyde, 2008). This can exacerbate weight stigma and contribute to unhealthy behaviors in the pursuit of rapid weight loss.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, reality weight loss shows, while entertaining for some, can have serious psychological implications for both participants and viewers. Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, notes, "These shows can foster a culture of comparison that undermines our self-acceptance and emotional well-being." Furthermore, Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a renowned happiness researcher, emphasizes that "the relentless pursuit of an idealized body image can lead to detrimental effects on self-esteem and mental health." As viewers, it's crucial to approach these shows critically and understand the potential psychological risks involved. For more insights, visit Dr. Susan David's website and Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar's website.