Jamie’s obesity drive earns critical acclaim

Added on 23/08/10

Author: Sarah Warman – Reporter

Although health secretary Andrew Lansley may not agree with Jamie Oliver’s weight loss campaigns, it seems that the TV chef has won over American critics.

British chef, Jamie Oliver’s, 6 part reality television programme Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution has received an Emmy award. The Naked Chef’s was show was given the best reality show award at the ceremony.

Engrossing television’

The show highlighted the issue of childhood obesity in Huntington, Virginia which has been labelled ‘America’s fattest town’. The programme became a hit across the pond with around 7.5 million viewers tuning in to watch the chef struggle to improve the eating habits of the American public. Jamie’s ‘school dinners’ show was a big hit here, and his fame continues to grow as the American public have warmed to his cheeky manner, as well as his passion for helping people to eat well and lose weight.

The show has already received much praise from the American media, with The New York Times calling the show ‘engrossing television’ and the Los Angeles Times calling Oliver ’eminently and instantly likable’.

‘I can't believe we won the Emmy for Food Revolution’, the TV chef tweeted. He also thanked the 650,000 people who signed an online petition that called for healthier school meal options for American children, which include stars such as P Diddy, Jennifer Aniston, and Rickey Gervais!

Passion

Obesity remains a huge issue across the pond. Recent figures have shown that 9 stated in the USA have obesity rates of over 30%. Although the increase in childhood obesity is said to be levelling out, there are still huge numbers of American children who are overweight and obese.

Jamie Oliver’s passion for better dietary habits can inspire us all. A healthy diet is vital in losing weight. When coupled with regular exercise as well as supplements, we can all take steps to improve our health. Rates of obesity remain high here in the UK, and we could certainly do with having the Naked Chef working his magic back on our shores!