Experts say public criticism of ‘Biggest Loser’ winner who dropped to 105 pounds unhelpful

MINNEAPOLIS – Experts say the criticism being levied at the latest winner of NBC’s “Biggest Loser” isn’t helpful and that the message needs to centre on healthy living.

Minnesota native Rachel Fredrickson lost nearly 60 per cent of her body weight on the NBC show. The 5-foot-4 24-year-old dropped from 260 pounds to 105 before Tuesday night’s finale.

A three-time state champion swimmer in Minnesota, Fredrickson says she turned to sweets after a failed romance.

Frederickson’s newly thin frame lit up Twitter on Wednesday. Many tweeted that she looked anorexic and unhealthy, while others congratulated her for dropping 155 pounds.

Eating disorder expert Jillian Lampert says a more constructive message to send to young people would centre on well-rounded health, in eating, exercising and sleeping habits.