Fitness Influencer Joe Wicks Under Fire for 'Relapse' Comments on Sugar Challenge

A recent video by fitness personality Joe Wicks has drawn criticism after he described consuming Jaffa Cakes as a 'relapse' in his 'sugar challenge.' The comments have sparked a debate among health and fitness enthusiasts, with many expressing concern that such rhetoric could inadvertently promote disordered eating habits. In a response video, a commentator highlighted the problematic nature of labeling foods as 'good' or 'bad' and using addiction-related terms like 'relapse' for dietary choices. 'It's less about the sugar problem and seems to be leaning more towards the disordered eating problem,' the commentator stated, emphasizing that a balanced diet should include all food groups. He further added, 'If you're otherwise balanced, eat the Jaffa cakes.' Critics argue that Wicks, with an audience of approximately 5 million people on social media, holds significant influence, and his unqualified advice could be detrimental. Several social media users echoed these sentiments, with one comment stating, 'it's so easy to tip slightly from a "healthy eating" journey into disordered eating and having some foods labeled as unequivocally "bad" or "junk" really helps ime :/' Another user shared, 'I've struggled my entire life framing foods as good and bad. Wrote off days as bad days as I'd ate one thing "bad". It's so hard to adjust your mindset and people like him using the word relapse is triggering for those that have ED's/addictions.' The discussion underscores the importance of responsible messaging from public figures in the health and wellness industry, particularly concerning sensitive topics like diet and body image.

Mail Online

6 days ago

Joe Wicks's advice on going sugar-free labelled 'dangerous'

The 'Body Coach', 39, also said that eating 'half a melon, three satsumas, two nectarines and three peaches' was 'not normal'.