24/05/2013

Soap Stars Lead Unhealthy Lifestyles According To New Research

Soap stars are portraying irresponsible lifestyles, with high levels of unhealthy eating and alcohol consumption, and a total lack of exercise, according to new research.

The Co-operative Food and Liverpool John Moores University Business School analysed more than 830 scenes of the UK's four most popular soaps, Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks - over a two-week period.

The results revealed unhealthy eating habits, high amounts of alcohol drinking and low levels of physical activity.

Of all the drinks consumed by characters, 57% were either alcoholic or sugary, compared to just 6% which were considered healthy. And, according to the findings, 72% of the food consumed, or referred to, was unhealthy.

Doireann Maddock, our Senior Cardiac Nurse, said: "Show producers are cooking up a hotpot full of trouble for our best-loved soap stars by putting them at an increased risk of an on-screen heart attack or stroke.

"Walford, Coronation Street and Emmerdale would be much healthier places if their famous residents were served up a more balanced diet, got active and drank only the recommended amount of alcohol when the cameras are rolling.

"If Eric Pollard wants to reduce his risk of that second heart attack, he needs to spend less time in the Woolpack and more time enjoying brisk walks around the Yorkshire Dales and a diet packed with fruit and veg."

(CD)

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