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You Are What You Eat

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Gillian McKeith, Where to watch: BBC America)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 6, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Tough-talking nutritionist guides healthy changes.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The series emphasizes healthy eating and lifestyle choices, discussing the benefits of certain foods and the health risks caused by exceeding recommended intake of ingredients like salt, sugar, and saturated fat. The no-nonsense host's comments about the subjects' bad habits sometimes seem a bit cruel, but it's meant to inspire their dedication to life changes, and overall she's supportive of their efforts.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Some of the host's comments can seem cruel.
  • Sexy stuff:

    Subjects pose in their underwear for "before" videos, but it's not at all sexual.
  • Language:

    Rare use of "damn."
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Subjects are sometimes shown drinking wine or beer, but the host is quick to point out the health risks of excessive consumption.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About You Are What You Eat

Parents need to know that this British series promotes healthy exercise and nutrition habits. The holistic nutritionist host rarely minces words when she critiques subjects' dietary downfalls, but although her approach may seem harsh, it's soon obvious that her intentions are good. Tweens probably won't be too interested in this reality-type show, but if they do tune in, make a point of commending the subjects for their efforts to improve their health (especially when they're posing in their underwear for "before" shots, which might prompt giggles from kids who don't know the context).

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the media's role in promoting a healthy lifestyle. How does the media affect what people choose to eat? Is it the media's responsibility to make sure people see only healthy foods and activities? Do you think someone should be in charge of which foods can be marketed to kids? If so, who? Families can also discuss the general importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. How does poor diet and lack of exercise affect your physical well-being? What are some of the health risks that they pose? How would you describe your own health and lifestyle habits?

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Parent Reviewer
    Lives in Illinois
    I rate this title on for age 4 and give it 4.0

    I enjoy the show It really makes you realize how unhealthy you are. I'm trying to find Jillians recipies

    I love the show Jillian is good at what she does! Keep up the good work!!

  2. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Alabama
    I rate this title on for age 5 and give it 5.0

    A MUSTwatch- Wheres the book?

    With more and more people , even oour children, becomming overweight it is important for us to get good dietary advice thats easy to follow. You are what you eat gives us that , while at the same time entertaining us. Bring it to prime time! I love it!

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