RTE has addressed criticism of Operation Transformation, the show that runs every January to help participants lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle.
According to the RTE News website, the show has received criticism from Bodywhys, the Eating Disorders Association of Ireland, who have said that parts of the show are “triggering” to its service users. They also said that despite the show’s positive intention, it nonetheless impacts negatively on their mental health due to its emphasis on weight loss and body shape.
In response, RTE has said that this year’s series features checks on the overall health of the participants from their blood pressure to their psychological wellbeing, and that it has evolved over its 15 years on the station. They also said that the show will set weekly targets for the leaders in “a variety of areas” that show “the holistic nature of the series and all the areas of support and advice” that the health experts provide.
They also cited findings from a 2021 survey by Healthy Ireland that considered the effectiveness of the show.
The survey stated: “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.”
The statement 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.”
The first episode of Operation Transformation was broadcast on Wednesday night when the leaders were introduced and their initial targets were set for the following week.
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