Parents need to know that this reality series chronicles the weight-loss struggle of a morbidly obese woman who's trying to become physically and emotionally healthier. It highlights the need to eat nutritiously, exercise, and identify the emotional factors that lead to weight gain while also looking at the challenges that overweight people face in their daily lives. Some of the conversations about relationships and the emotional issues brought up during therapy sessions may be too much for younger tweens, and parents may want to remind weight-conscious kids that no weight-loss plan should be started without consulting a medical professional.
Positive messages:The show's focus is on losing weight for health reasons rather than appearance. It offers an honest look at the lifestyle changes necessary to lose weight, and shows how difficult it is to make those changes. It also examines the way that society in general treats overweight people. The cast is primarily Caucasian; Ruby's trainer is African American.
Violence:Occasional mild arguing between Ruby and her friends.
Sex:Kissing and hugging are frequent, but they're rarely presented within the context of romance and relationships. Ruby briefly talks about her inability to feel sexy and her desire to have a healthy sexual relationship someday. Potential for discussion about sexual trauma.
Consumerism:Logos promoting Hour Glass Health and Fitness, 24-Hour Fitness, and a few other commercial establishments are sometimes visible. Ruby's trainer is well-known fitness guru Reese Brown.
This show is both informative and inspirational! Not only does it address health issues of being overweight, but it realistically shows Ruby in the struggle, no glitz, no glamor, just an every day person. It also chronicles the well known fact that most eating disorders stem from an emotional/mental space, and addresses that as well. This how does not lead to false impressions of some shows, that once you lose, the battle will be so easy. Ruby conquers things that most of us dream of, such as that Harbour Bridge climb in Australia, that even her TRAINER had issues with. This is a GREAT show for all. Due to some subject matter, that is brought out in her therapy, I would not suggest it for really small children. If you are looking for motivation or just hope to persevere, this story of Ruby provides! 719 pounds, now down to 360 or so, with NO surgery! Who would not be amazed and inspired?
This is one of my favorite shows. Ruby ifeel is a very beautiful person on the outside and ecspecially on the inside. She desplays a positive attitude about staying in shape and losing weight so she will be more healthy and get to do more things. Ruby is a good rolemodel and sends positive messages to tweens about never giving up and u can succed if u try. and in one episode Ruby sends an extremly good message about boyfriend relationships. She said she would never settle for a man who doesent love her unconditionally. Which is a very positive message. So bottom line love the show i suggest all girl tweens ages 11 and up watch it!