Cash for calorie counting?

The threat of unpleasant medical conditions, early death and social criticism not proving a firm enough incentive, the Government is considering waving cash under the noses of the obese.

We’re not sure who should be the most affronted, people struggling with their weight whose efforts are being ‘bought’ or all the non-obese tax payers who will also be footing the bill.

In fact, it’s likely to be businesses who pay for any wonga for weight loss schemes, as reported in today’s Telegraph: “Employers will be encouraged to set up competitions with money, vouchers and other rewards for people who give up junk food in favour of healthy eating and living.

“Those losing the most weight would earn the biggest prizes.”

Yes, if there’s one thing everyone struggling with weight and comfort eating enjoys, it’s being monitored in an excruciatingly public fashion and having the proverbial carrot dangled in front of them.

This latest fairground ‘bat the rat’ approach to health policy is proving controversial already.

Apparently similar schemes have worked well in America. DietPixie remembers the day it was announced that America had eradicated their obesity problems and should probably be seen as a world fat monitor.

Sniping aside, however, the need for desperation is clear: 30% of kids in the UK are already overweight or obese, while it’s projected that almost all of the population will be obese by 2050, costing the NHS around £50billion a year. But surely this isn’t the way?

Have your say below.

Photo: Xenia