Fed Up (film)

Fed Up poster

Fed Up is a 2014 American documentary film directed by Stephanie Soechtig and produced by Katie Couric and Laurie David. The film focuses on the causes and consequences of obesity in the United States, presenting evidence that large quantities of sugar in processed foods are an underlying factor. The documentary also criticizes the food industry and the U.S. government for their roles in the prevalence of unhealthy eating habits. Fed Up challenges the conventional wisdom of calorie counting and exercise as the only solutions to obesity, arguing for a closer look at the quality of calories consumed, particularly highlighting the impact of sugar.

Synopsis

Fed Up opens with a historical overview of the obesity epidemic in the United States, tracing its rise from the late 20th century. The film presents interviews with experts in nutrition, health, and policy, alongside personal stories from children who are struggling with obesity. It examines the role of the food industry in promoting unhealthy foods, especially to children, through aggressive marketing tactics. The documentary also explores the failure of government policies to address the issue effectively, including the influence of food industry lobbyists on dietary guidelines and legislation.

The film argues that the increase in sugar consumption is a significant driver of the obesity epidemic. It criticizes the food industry for adding excessive sugar to a wide range of processed foods, including those marketed as "healthy" or "low-fat." Fed Up suggests that this high sugar content is contributing to a host of health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity itself.

Reception

Upon its release, Fed Up received widespread critical acclaim for its compelling argument and its call to action. Critics praised the documentary for shedding light on the complexities of the obesity epidemic and challenging the status quo of dietary advice. However, the film also faced criticism from some quarters, including representatives of the food industry, who disputed its claims and accused it of oversimplification.

Impact

Fed Up has been credited with raising public awareness about the role of sugar in the obesity epidemic and influencing discussions about food policy. The film has been used in educational settings and community screenings to promote discussions about healthy eating and the need for policy changes. It has also inspired viewers to examine and change their own eating habits, particularly regarding sugar consumption.

See Also

• Obesity in the United States
• Sugar-sweetened beverages
• Dietary Guidelines for Americans
• Food politics