Dawn French under fire for encouraging obesity

Dawn French has been criticised by a leading clinical nutritionist for being a role model for overweight people with her ‘big is beautiful' catchphrase...

A leading clinical nutritionist and Harley Street diet expert has criticised Dawn French for ‘encouraging obesity' and being a role model for people who are overweight.

Mary Strugar said the comedy actress, who is 5ft and weighs an estimated 19 stone, is ‘sending the wrong signals'. She said: ‘Dawn French is one our most loved comediennes but she has also, perhaps unwittingly, become a role model for the obese. In a typical pronouncement, Dawn once said: 'As far as I'm concerned there are two types of women, the ones who like chocolate and complete bitches.'

Miss Strugar added: ‘Obesity is a growing epidemic with many choosing to ignore the potential long-term misery of ill health associated with it. Dawn may fall into this group.'

Miss Strugar spoke out after an Opinion Health survey of 400 British GPs carried out for weight management supplement Appesat, found that 45 per cent of GPs think that statements such as 'big is beautiful' can give people an unhealthy attitude to weight.

Rachel Cooke, a senior dietician at University College London, added: ‘All too often people get caught up in the 'we must be as thin as the celebrities to be happy' trap, which isn't necessarily the case.

‘But we should also remember the health implications of being obese. These include increased risk of stroke, some cancers, hypertension, respiratory disorders and muscular disorders.' Do you applaud Dawn French for being happy with the way she is or do you think she encourages people to eat the wrong things? Have your say below...

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