It said the show now has a more “holistic” approach to maintaining weight loss.
RTÉ has responded to the heavy criticism of its show Operation Transformation.
On Wednesday, BodyWhys, the Eating Disorder Association of Ireland shared a statement saying the show had the potential to have a “negative impact on mental health” and was “triggering” to many users of the service.
Viewers have long expressed their concerns about the show, with some calling it “fatphobic”, and have criticised the “humiliating” and revealing Lycra outfits worn at weekly weigh-ins.
RTÉ has now defended the new season, which aired on Wednesday night, due to its more “holistic” approach.
“Now in its 15th season, Operation Transformation has evolved considerably over the years and now encompasses a more holistic approach to adopting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle as well as losing weight.
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“In this year’s series, for example, the weekly check-in (the part of the show where the leaders meet the experts) incorporates an overall health check looking at a range of health indicators including blood pressure, cholesterol, hydration, sleep quality and psychological wellbeing.
“Weekly targets for the leaders will now be set in a variety of areas.
“This further demonstrates the holistic nature of the series and all the areas of support and advice our health experts give to our leaders throughout.”
The broadcaster went on to address the effectiveness of the show, referring to 2021 survey by Healthy Ireland.
“74% [of respondents] said that they had made one or more positive lifestyle changes as a result of watching the show, including 41% being more active, 33% eating healthier food and 23% looking after their mental wellbeing.”
It concluded: “In previous seasons the leaders have spoken about the long-standing positive influences this experience has given them and viewers have spoken about how the leaders inspired them to do the same.”
Launching the new season last week, RTE said the show “provides the motivation we all need to transform our bodies and our minds”.
