OBESITY warnings should be stitched onto the labels of large clothes according to a Scots surgeon.
Chubby shoppers could get more than they bargained for when they pick their sizes if Edinburgh Royal Infirmary doctor Chris Oliver has his way.
He fears Scotland’s weight problem is “spiralling out of control” and wants clothing manufacturers to take “serious action.”
Leading surgeon Dr Oliver weighed a whopping 27 stone but shed 10 after surgery.
He wants cigarette packet style warnings on clothing labels telling of the risks of cancer and heart disease.
Calories
It is estimated that on average during the Christmas week, people consume enough calories for an Antarctic expedition.
He said: “The nation’s obesity problem is spiralling out of control so I think it’s time to take serious action.
“It’s time to remind obese people they need to take serious action if they are to avoid heart disease and cancer.
“Where better than their clothes labels?
“It’s the first thing people look at when they reach for their size in the shops.”
He suggests that size labels should also include a helpline number offering slimming advice.
“It might work for some”
Although he chose the drastic route of surgery to tackle his flab, Dr Oliver now keeps fit raising money for charity.
He is currently training for a New Year triathlon, combining a 400-metre swim, 11-mile cycle and 3.5-mile run.
Slimming experts Weight Watchers gave a cautious welcome to the idea.
They said: “It might work for some but not others.
“Each person’s weight-loss is different and the things that trigger their desire to lose weight are often personal.
“One size doesn’t fit all when you consider people’s motivations.”
See more of our videos at our dedicated channel, Deadline TV.
