I am loving the new HIITilates series and looks like you are too!! I am excited for your enthusiasm as I build out this new format! I always knew you guys liked your cardio so I had to figure out a way to make it fun and exciting and excruciating without counting (boring) or timers (boring). The new moves challenge me just as much as they challenge you – so great job for keeping up!!!
I am between the Bay Area and Palm Springs the next couple days! This Sunday I will be teaching a group of young kids how to have fun while staying active at President Clinton’s Health Matters event. I don’t think I will get to see him though! Boo. But oh well, maybe one of these days I can meet Michelle Obama and work with her on educating our youth on nutrition and exercise. I honestly think that if we get em young and get em thinking about food the right way from the beginning, we can prevent obesity, hospital visits, and all types of illnesses. I GENUINELY believe that food is your medicine. Preventative medicine is the best kind you can be prescribed :)
OMG and speaking of kids and obesity and food and….
Oh
My
Gah
Can I just say I was stuck watching “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” at the gym yesterday??!!!! (Ok fine, I wasn’t stuck, it was completely my choice, but I had to see what all the rave was about!)
I mean.
I can’t.
I can’t even.
WHAT IS THIS!!!????
I don’t even know where to start. I was lucky enough to tune into the Thanksgiving episode where I got to watch them make food and eat it. Now when I say lucky, I actually mean it. I think it was a good starter episode for me because seeing the family’s nutrition made me understand where they were coming from…even though it nearly made me gag and die as I was on the stairmaster.
Here’s my takeaway…
So I watch the mom who is morbidly obese make a turkey. She says she doesn’t like to cook but she’ll cook a turkey for Thanksgiving. How does she do it? Take a whole TUB of butter and seriously grabs it with her bare hands and rubs it in between the turkey skin and meat. Leaving lumps of butter like 5 inches thick EVERYWHERE!!! Best part is Honey Boo Boo is there to learn that butter is the main ingredient in every meal…
Next mama makes veggies. Oh good. Cept she takes out like legit 50 cans of beans, yams, corn etc. and says that “If it don’t come in a can, we don’t eat it.”
Sigh.
Next she makes cranberry sauce. As she pours like 30 jelly-fied things of cranberry sauce into a pan and lathers it with a pound of sugar and 2 pounds of butter, she says “This is how the kids get fruit. And cranberry is good for urinary tract infection or somethin’ so it’s healthy.”
OMG, I could go on and on but you get the point.
What upsets me about the show has nothing to do about how unfit the family is or what their income level is and what they have access to but their sheer DENIAL of the truth and obvious DEFIANCE of doing anything about it!!!! The show glorifies this disgusting, careless, and EXTREMELY unhealthy lifestyle for millions of people to see every day. For those of us lucky enough to understand, we see the show as entertainment. But for others who don’t know better, they may see this as okay to do since TV is showing it.
Seeing the morbidly obese mom continually feeding herself and her children toxic food kills my soul so badly. Look, I don’t care if she doesn’t have a degree in nutrition or whatever – she doesn’t have to to know what the right thing is to do. If she wakes up every morning feeling lethargic and unmotivated to do anything to change her life – why doesn’t she at least try to spark a change in her kids?? Feeding them butter and sugar every day and letting them fart and burp all over the place during dinner while throwing food around…I can tell they do not appreciate the beauty of nourishing your body.
They see food as fun. Food as a thing. A thing you simply buy and put in your mouth because you’re supposed to eat a few times a day. The faster the better. The sweeter the better. The butter. The better.
The fact that a majority of the family is overweight is not the problem. Fat is just a result of what you haven’t done to take care of your body. Fat will be gone when you begin to eat your veggies, drink your water, and get active! I don’t look at body weight as a measure of someone’s sucess, education, or worth – but just as an indicator of healthiness. In this case, I am worried. I am very very worried for Honey Boo Boo.
A most of you know, living with your family makes it hard to eat what you want if you’re trying to eat clean and no one else gets it. Well how about this. Honey Boo Boo will never ever ever know about eating clean for years until her mom or dad begin cooking differently. She can’t buy food. She’s not tall enough to reach the stove. She is literally forced to eat the way her family cooks. That is why she is getting that tummy as little kid. It’s not her fault. And I am glad she doesn’t have any body image issues (yet) but something needs to change soon because her parents are slowly killing her health and well-being with the food they eat daily.
It’s sad because I don’t wanna blame her mom for their way of life because she too was probably brought up on “butter, sketti, and ketchup,” but it has to stop somewhere. And where that starts from is from education and the will to make a change.
Yea. It’s hard. It VERY hard if you have over 200 pounds to lose and you don’t even know where to start. Mama is at this point probably addicted to butter and sugar and it will take support from friends and family and a burning desire inside herself to begin a new life. She needs to do it though. Not just for her. But for her kids and their kids.
It’d be cool if the mom could get on Biggest Loser. I bet they asked her before but she said no. And that’s the problem. She has to be the one to decide for herself to make the change. No one else can do that for her.
I just hope someone steps in soon to cook for them. I don’t even care about the exercise right now. The diet is killing me. And physically killing them. The show disgusts me to the bone but I am glad I got to watch it yesterday because I know there are many many more families out there who are living a similar lifestyle. I truly believe the change begins with education. I need to think about this.
So if you know anyone who is not treating their body right, try to help them. Don’t go over and say “Do you know what you’re eating is gonna give you a heart attack?” That doesn’t work. What you do is you bake a healthy apple pie or yummy oatmeal muffin for them and say “Hey, I made this for you.” Smile. If they like it, they will ask for the recipe. It starts there and it starts small.
What do you think about Honey Boo Boo? Do you watch that show? And how do you think we can get more people educated about nutrition who aren’t actively seeking it and living it like we are?
<3 Cassey
Hi Cassey,
I have to be honest… I do watch Here Comes Honey Boo Boo and I actually enjoy for the most part. But, I do have to agree with your opinion/thoughts on their eating habits. I’ve cringed numerous times while watching June (the mom) prepare food for the girls. They definitely don’t live a healthy lifestyle. And they’ve made plenty of comments about their distaste for healthy food. I even think Alana (Honey Boo Boo) made a comment in the Thanksgiving episode talking about how they’re not rabbits, she doesn’t want to eat/like salad, etc etc.
I think it all boils down to what’s convenient. And what they’re used to. As someone who’s grown up in not the most healthiest of households, it’s hard to shake the habit of eating junk… Heck, I’m 23 and I’m still trying to shake that habit. In one episode, June bought I believe they were collard greens or something of that sort… and she even admitted to not knowing how to prepare them. It ended up turning into a little contest between the girls to see who could eat the most raw greens.
I don’t necessarily think that the show is promoting bad habits, though. But perhaps that is because I know better and I take the show for what it is, which is entertainment. Last season, June tried to get the girls to lose weight. I don’t quite remember how it was they were going about it, but there was a point where they did try to lose weight… And all but one of the girls (including the mom) did lose about 2-5lbs. Not sure if they stuck with it or not, but yeah.
Besides the comedic antics of the family on Honey Boo Boo, I have to admit that while they may not live healthy lifestyles, they do try to promote positive body image. June has, or at least portrays, confidence that I wish I had! And she instills it in Alana. Alana is spunky and just bursting at the seams with confidence. And that’s wonderful, especially in a society now where we have young girls developing eating disorders… starving themselves to be as thin as the models, singers, and actresses they see on television and in the magazines.
The main issue is that they’re not eating healthily. They’re not getting the nutrients they need. And I completely get where you’re coming from with that.
To answer your other question about how we can educate others who are trying to get on the path of healthy eating… I’m not entirely sure. A lot of it starts at home. We eat what we’re fed. We grow accustomed to it. We grow to love it (hello, comfort food!). But, I think if people really want to turn their lifestyle around they will. They will find a way. I had/have horrible eating habits… I still live at home and I don’t make enough to buy a full supply of groceries to last me, leaving me with having to eat whatever’s prepared at home. But when my mom goes grocery shopping I try to show her better alternatives to what she usually buys. Alternatives that, most of the time, happen to be cheaper. You just really have to look, read the nutrition information.
Perhaps they need to start implementing practical nutrition lessons in health classes at school? So children and teens can learn what to look for and know what’s healthy and what’s not.
And, while it may seem a bit cheesy, I have to say… Your videos and blog posts are a wonderful resource for many people that are trying to change their lifestyles. I know you have definitely helped me. Free workout videos that are fun and motivating (and you really don’t need much, or any, equipment!). And blog posts about healthy foods that are easy to make and accessible! I mean, seriously… who would’ve known that two eggs and one banana would make such delicious, and healthy, pancakes?!
Like, I said… I think that if people really want to turn their lifestyle around and eat better, etc… they will. They will find a way. Most people have the internet and the ability to educate themselves on, at least, the very basics of what’s good for them and what’s not.
This is really offensive. The “morbidly obese” comment was way out of line. I understand where you are coming from.. I’ve seen the show, and they don’t eat healthy, at all. BUT, some of your followers may be “morbidly obese” and eating right. The term is offesive and pretty much steroptypical. What you think a morbidly obese person eats doesn’t mean ALL huge people eat that way. And where is body positive? I don’t know if you mean to, but you’re sending out a negative body image example. Weight is a determination of health? Maybe in some ways, but not all. People shouldn’t be focused on a number. Health is more than just a number. I am VERY dissapointed in this.
Morbidly obese is a medical term used to describe someone who is at least 100 lbs overweight.
Just a straight up question: Has Mama June ever released an official statement declaring that she is at least 100 lbs overweight? or is this yet another assumption? just straight up asking because size is not an indication of weight.
(cont..) just like weight is not necessarily and indicator of HEALTH (or size).
But June is UNHEALTHY! She eats horribly and doesn’t exercise!
Arianna, How are you so certain? This is a reality show. We don’t know how these people eat or what they do when the cameras aren’t rolling.
Go away. You don’t have to be on here so if you don’t like it then just exit the blog!
Ok so I’m happy a person like you saw this! I personally don’t think this show has a good point! It’s totally disgusting, the people are ……. How I think is gross, and it just gives people the ‘ok you can all eat a pound of butter a day’ image! Why doesn’t some healthy person do something? I think this show needs to be cancelled!
I think you wrote about this with a lot of compassion toward the family and especially toward the children whose lives are being affected by the parents’ choices. This is an illness. I appreciate everything that you put out there for people to take advantage of at no charge: your energy, your knowledge, your support. You are helping people take control of their health, THANK YOU!
It’d be cool if the mom could get on Biggest Loser. I bet they asked her before but she said no.
Don’t assume things, dear. It makes you look like an ass to me and everyone else who read your horrible fat-shaming writing. Also, really with the pound of this and pound of that? There’s exaggeration and then there’ lying to try to make your point.
You’ve just lost a subscribers and I’ll be sure to pass on your message of hat and intolerance.
Make think before you type next time.
Go away. You don’t have to be on here so if you don’t like it then just exit the blog!
*there’s
*subscriber
*hate
*Maybe
Holy typos, Batman!
Can I use the excuse that my room is freezing and I couldn’t feel my fingers while typing?
And thank you, Cassey Ho, for being a preachy, condescending fat-shamer who jumps to conclusions and exaggerates like woah.
No where in this post does Cassey talk about their bodies! She even says “The fact that a majority of the family is overweight is not the problem”. She goes over WHAT they are eating. Have you seen this particular episode? Obviously not because if you had you would see that they do in fact put a pound of butter on the turkey and a pound of sugar on the cranberry sauce. She did not say one thing about hating them, she did not shame them. What she did examine and analyze was WHAT they were eating. Read it again!
I gotta be honest, I appreciate what you’re trying to do here. I know you meant well, but a lot of things in this post were just wrong.
Especially the part where you say weight is an indicator of health. I’m 5’4 and around 110lbs – my weight is perfectly normal. But does this mean I’m healthy? No. I’ve practically lived on junkfood and canned foods and processed foods my whole life because I can’t bring myself to eat chicken or fish or veggies. I’m already 24 and I still eat pizza almost on a daily basis. I am extremely unhealthy and I do admit that. But just because I’m not overweight or obese doesn’t mean I’m healthy. I’m just as bad as the people on this show, except I don’t get criticized by people because I look normal.
I know you’re just trying to encourage people or whatever into eating healthy and exercising, and I think you’re great in your videos. But posts like these? They just turn people off. Not everyone has the luxury of having organic food shops and all that wherever they live. Sometimes we have to make do with what we have and I just wish you would remember that. My mom and my brother are overweight and they are both trying to live healthy. My mom eats veggies and fish and avoids fried foods, my brother goes to the gym and tries to limit his caloric intake. But still they’re overweight.
I’m not really sure where I’m going with this. Just that next time try to think about the situation of other people before you say things like disgusting. To be honest – food is supposed to be fun. You’re supposed to enjoy what you eat. And lastly, Honey Boo Boo is just a kid. Let her enjoy. If she likes butter and all that, then let her be. Please don’t go around posting that gif of her and saying it’s a disgusting image. My nephew is 4 and his tummy is just like that and yes sometimes he shows it off like Honey Boo Boo did. I am appalled that you would call it disgusting. They’re just kids.
I completely get where you’re coming from when you say people don’t always have organic food markets to go to, and a lot of people can’t afford them sometimes either –speaking from personal experience. But I don’t think that’s what this post is about; a lot of healthy foods are actually very reasonably priced, and there’s no need to use as much butter and sugar as Honey Boo Boo’s mother does when she cooks. Cooking the turkey without butter –using some Mrs. Dash seasoning instead perhaps– would make the meal quite a bit healthier, and it doesn’t require any expensive or hard-to-find organic foods.
It’s good to hear that your family is trying to eat healthy and exercise though, and it sounds like you got lucky with fast metabolism! :)
I do agree with you that eating healthy isn’t all about organic. I have been trying to incorporate healthy foods into my diet. I try out some chicken here and there, and even have a bite of some vegetable once in a while. I finally even went out and got myself some chicken fillet. It’s a little out of the way (can you believe most groceries where I live dont even have chicken fillet) but I’m trying to change so I have to just not mind the distance.
I get what Cassie was trying to say with this post, I just think she could have used better words to get it out there. I’m sure she is sincerely concerned for this family and I appreciate that she cares. Just being a little sensitive to how others might feel when she points out that belly fat would have been nice is all. :)
You do not need organic to eat healthy! You can buy veggies and fruit that will last you a week with the money you bought a pizza that only lasted you a couple of minutes. I don’t find this post offensive at all. I’m sure that if you find it offensive in some way is because Cassey was stating the truth. I don’t see why so many people are viewing this post as negative and offensive. This just illustrates how America is with it’s bad eating habits and wanting everything the easy and fast way ( fast food). I honestly agree with cassey and the way they are feeding that child disgusts me in so many ways.
Agnes; I get where you’re coming from in some respects but as a nurse I’ve got to agree with Cassie. Frankly I’m appalled by what they put in their mouth. Although you might be fortunate enough that your diet doesn’t manifest itself in a weight issue and while many people share your mother and brother’s situation, Cassie is right. Their diet is a recipe for cardiovascular disease, bowel cancer, diabetes, dental caries, gingivitis, diabetic ulcers which can result in limb loss, decreased circulation, fatty liver, arthritis and other joint problems, decreased mobility… it goes on. Not to mention the psychological harm that she will probably develop when she is older and gets teased at school or looks in the mirror and doesn’t like what she sees, can’t keep up with her friends in PE, can’t wear the same sized clothes as her friends or ends up being the kid with the diabetic pump in her belly. Yes, she is just a kid, and it is appalling that at such a young age her mother- the person who is meant to be her nurturer and carer- is feeding her the foods that will put her in this position. It is tragic that a child should be put in a position where she may develop a whole host of medical and psychological complications so young, which can be very, very permanent. The part that gets me watching the TV show is that it seems to be borne of ignorance. It doesn’t have to be organic, but it’s not as though healthy food is automatically difficult to prepare or always expensive to buy.
Hi Cassey!
Love everything you do!! You are an inspiration to us all. And yes, I agree whole-heartly about your opinion on HBB and that entire family. We don’t watch that show and I refuse to have my kids watch it. It’s extremely depressing seeing how a mother raises that poor child. It’s even more depressing knowing they have become quite a media sensation.
Way to go! You say it like it is!! Oh – and I hope you get to meet Michelle Obama. I too have a passion for nutrition/health, so I truly admire her as well.
I think that Honey Boo Boo (or as my dad calls it, Agave Boo Boo) is a testament to how the human race has epically failed. It also breaks my heart to see so many people my age with unhealthy habits. I would like to put on a Templar jerkin and preach the gospel of healthy living, but by that is just asking to get garroted. (dang, living healthy/eating clean/gluten free dairy free/paleo can give you hourglass eyes after a while)
I think it’s disgusting that you put a picture of a Alana showing her belly, she is a child and by putting that picture up you are ridiculing her. That family is happy and they love themselves, is that so bad? Is eating healthy the main thing to strive for in life? Look at the children in the poorest countries in the world who are starving and aren’t PRIVLEGED to eat organic meals, or even eat at all. but they have life. Eating clean shouldn’t have to be the main thing to worry about and to me it sounds a bit obsessive. If you love yourself and you are happy then that’s the only thing that should matter.Bye
Go away. You don’t have to be on here so if you don’t like it then just exit the blog!
Free your mind, ironic name. Shutting down public debate and ridiculing those who don’t agree with you is not the path to enlightenment.
First of all, let’s all remember that Reality TV is not reality. Producers set up many of these scenes for “good TV”. My problem with this blog is not if it is true or not but should any one from that family read this, it would be very hurtful. I just don’t see the need to bash one family when this whole Obesity issue is everywhere.
I’m pretty certain that much worse things have been said about them elsewhere on the internet. If the family were to read anything at all about them online, this would probably be the best thing.
Really? Hurtful is hurtful. Cassey is usually so positive and this whole thing has come off as very negative.
I think there’s a difference between tough love and being hurtful. Casey wants to see honey boo boo and her family get healthier. The point of the post was not to make fun of or insult anyone. Sometimes being honest hurts but it’s what you need to hear. Honey boo boo’s mom is morbidly obese and if she doesn’t change the way she eats she is going to die from weight related health issues. She is shortening her lifespan as well as her daughter’s by living such an inactive, uneducated & unhealthy lifestyle.
Yes! Thank you.
I honestly i do not think they even care what is being said about them when they are being pay to act this way for everyone’s entertainment. in my opinion no amount of money should justify their poor eating life style. Like Elena mention, i too hope they realize that they need to change for their health. Also, i just want to say thank you Cassey from the bottom of my heart for helping me back n shape. You have become my inspiration and motivator too keep going even when it gets tough. :}
Go away. You don’t have to be on here so if you don’t like it then just exit the blog!
I completely understand your frustration with that show. And it’s not at all about them being “morbidly obese”, it’s how they’re slowly killing themselves with crap food and proud of it. It makes me sad for the children. I know a couple obese children and their parents are as well. No one can ever be forced to change their eating habits. I just hope they realize they need to change for their health
I too for the first time watched that show yesterday. I have the same exact feelings. And they are stronger since watching the biggest loser last Monday. The stats of the health problems child hood obesity was awful made me sad and want to scream!! Don’t listen to the negativity I think your initial reaction is very valid. It was sad very sad. And I think you have a great idea as far as getting healthier foods to people.
I actually do watch the show, and although the eating habits are disgusting and I totally agree with you. I do like that they can be themselves on TV. They don’t pretend to be classy and skinny, like a lot of other reality programs. They know they are overweight, rednecks and still love themselves. That’s the message I take out of the show. They make me giggle and realize it’s okay to be who you are. However, that being said, their eating habits are very terrible. My mom saw her cooking the thanksgiving episode and almost puked and yelled at me to shut the TV off. I do love the show, and I know it brings a lot of people joy. Watching them eat the way they do makes me appreciate the lifestyle I live. The problem with eating clean is that the whole, good, fresh foods is a lot more expensive than buying a can. And for some people, all they can maybe afford is a can. I don’t want to judge the way other people live because that is for them to choose. Maybe when Honey Boo Boo gets older she may want to change her diet and lifestyle but that is up to her. I know an overweight child, who is merely overweight because they overfed him unhealthy food, and no matter how many times you talk to the parent or the child about health and eating it never seems to make a difference. So I say, let people make their own choices, you can only voice your opinions so many times, and they may not listen. So why don’t YOU focus on YOUR choices and your lifestyle and be the best YOU can be. Because really what else can you do?
Hey Cassey,
You’ve basically summed up my entire view of this “phenomenon” in this blog post. I’ve seen one episode of this series and I didn’t even finish it because I couldn’t believe the state of their lifestyle. It amazes me that so many people think it’s fine to treat your body like that. It really hits home for me because I’m Australian and they have become one of the fattest countries in the world, despite having some of the most beautiful and fresh produce! That means people have the option to eat healthy, quite easily and cheaply, but are choosing not to do so! I am not the most slim or fit person out there but my passion for the subject is making me seriously consider Nutrition in the future. I owe a big part of that to you and your channel. Thanks so much for taking the first steps! xx
I really love what you said about how to help someone. It’s not telling them what they’re doing wrong, but loving them and being there to help. You got it! I have never seen that show, but those pictures you showed on here make me tear up. That is just really sad.
Cassey,
Thank you for the video. It is the first one I’ve tried, and I love it. You are so cute and energetic and down-to-earth and NOT ANNOYING! :] I am grateful for the short video, because I am a college student, and I have NO TIME. But I can squeeze 12 minutes of exercise into my day, RIGHT? :)
So, thank you.
Peace,
Kimi
I agree with Cassey, it’s not body shaming, they are killing their bodies with that toxic food. She’s more concerned about the kids, but the Mom, the Mom should be shamed. The mom is an adult, she should know better than to feed her children that toxic stuff, that will only make Honey Boo Boo’s life worse.
Oh my gosh Cassey, you are sooo right on how these people are not living a proper and healthy lifestyle. I started watching the thanks giving episode and I felt like throwing up… it was disgusting on how much butter they placed in and on the turkey!
I just do not know where to begin with this “family”. It is awful, It is up there with that American Gypsy show. They can call themselves whatever they want but at the end of the day they are still trashy. The same is with poor Honey Boo Boo. I;m afraid to see what other show becomes popular next.
Before you bash someone about being uneducated, please proofread your blog posts. I also find that the Mom does a great job of encouraging the girls to love themselves and their bodies, no matter what. I feel like that’s what you’re going for with your blog & videos. I respect the work that you do, but find this article to show an uglier side of you. Sorry for the honesty.
Go away. You don’t have to be on here so if you don’t like it then just exit the blog!
I don’t think it is glorifying their family as much as it is showing how pathetic some people really are. The masses get entertained and the family thinks they are being glorified, but most people just see how stupid and gross they are, not that the show actually condones that behavior.
Cassey, thank you SO MUCH for posting this. I was starting to feel like I was the only one who saw this family being on TV a problem. It makes me worried to think what impressionable minds will make of this. I’m so glad you have the platform you do to spread this message. <3
This post is so true Cassey and I think it is necessary to be out here. Hopefully honey boo boos family sees it and takes it not as discouraging but as encouraging to change. Also, you are so right. You can start so small and it’s so easy!
I know that when people talk about obesity it is a sensitive subject. Usually when people discuss weight loss, it’s weight loss for appearance’s sake. We see the women in the bikinis and lingerie and we get messages every day that imply that we’re suppose to look this way. So I understand if people get offended and take it personally that Cassey is talking about one obese person in particular and her mom. However, this is a kid we’re talking about. Being worried about an obese kid’s health isn’t just “making fun of a fat kid.” Addressing her mother’s habit of putting butter in everything isn’t making fun of a fat lady. You guys, stop taking this personally. This post is an examination of a family who has made their lifestyle very public, and it would be hypocritical for Cassey or anyone else pursuing a healthy lifestyle to pass this show off as funny or entertaining. She’s approached the subject very tactfully in my opinion. As a person who has been morbidly obese for most of her life, I can appreciate the way she’s addressed morbid obesity in America.
Speaking of Biggest Loser, I think it’s great that they are tackling childhood obesity this season. I love watching those kids learn a healthy lifestyle and I hope it will rub off on their parents too.
VERY WELL PUT, Tiffany! I absolutely agree!
I agree, fantastically said. You hit the nail right on the head!
It makes me so sad. It is so hard to change, especially when it is your culture. I live in a small rural area. We have an Aldi and the smallest Walmart ever as far as grocery stores go. They don’t stock the best stuff probably because it wouldn’t sell. Around here we eat the beef from our friends cow, the corn from the back yard and potatoes with pools of butter. When we cook stuff it is on our cast iron skillets that have been seasoned with bacon grease. We do add in other foods, but that is our main diet. I ate my first spaghetti squash a few years ago, my first edamamme and eggplant last year and I have no idea how to cook those brussel sprout things. I HATE where I am with my health, absolutely hate it, but it is so hard to change. Most of the time I have no idea what I am doing. Lots of people say it doesn’t cost as much to eat healthy and it probably doesn’t when you know what you’re doing, but when you haven’t got a clue what to cook, are experimenting with recipes and throwing out most of your pantry it is VERY costly. It is also very confusing. What sugars are good? What about sugar substitutes? What meats are good? Which flour is the best? Do I have to have coconut flour, spelt flour, whole grain white flour and whole wheat flour? What about coconut milk, almond milk, soy milk and skim? I’m lost a good chunk of the time and all the research is very time consuming. I want to change and I WILL! But those times when I don’t want to work out because I look like a bag lady since workout clothes come in tiny sizes or I’m crying because I can’t do a burpee or when I’m in utter panic because I’m at a get together and know nothing, but what I brought is clean are so discouraging. I had a choice to make and I made mine. I WILL NOT CONTINUE TO LIVE LIKE THIS! Regardless of the amount of fat on my body, which is more than I am willing to admit, the simple truth is I didn’t feel good. I was exhausted, tired, lethargic and unable to physically do everything I wanted. I have been trying to eat clean and exercise for 3 weeks(ish) now and I feel better. I still can’t do everything physically, but I have more energy and I am moving more. There are two quotes that have impacted me the most. The first: “Losing weight is hard. Maintaining weight is hard. Staying overweight is hard. Choose your hard.” It is all hard so why not pick hard and healthy. The other one is “Note to self, when I eat crap I feel like crap.” Which is why I have yet to weigh myself since I started. Who cares if I have lost 5 pounds or 10 or if I have actually stayed the same because I’m gaining muscle. Ultimately, my body is functioning better than it ever has and to me that’s the point. So thank you! I can’t pretend that I know what you meant by your words, but even if you take them the worst way possible maybe that is what someone needed. Maybe it provided encouragement for someone ready to give up. Maybe there was someone stubborn like me who needed that kick in the pants and a two by four of truth to knock some sense into them after a discouraging week. Don’t let the criticism get you down. People, myself included, need stuff like this or they won’t be able to make it work.
Hi other Tiffany. :) I really do know what you mean. I don’t live in a rural area, but I was brought up on a lot of unhealthy foods and it’s hard to change. I’m 100 pounds overweight and I’ve never known anything BUT being overweight since I was 11. People with a bunch of unhealthy habits have a huge learning curve. I know what you mean about struggling with burpees! I stop so many times during the workouts, kneeled over and trying to catch my breath. I haven’t made it all the way through a workout without stopping. And sometimes I even start crying, but despite the crying I do my best to finish. And I get a little better each time. :)
The other day, I was dancing around and I realized I wasn’t out of breath! That is huge for me because I love to randomly dance. lol. Also, I”ve dropped 13 pounds since the start of the year. I’m very happy about that. Working out and eating right is HARD, it HURTS, and there are times when I’d rather revert back to my old pattern of eating a pint of ice cream instead of going to the gym, but I know there is a “Better” out there and I’m aiming to get to it. I love the quote you gave about choosing your “hard.” I know I am done with the “hard” that being obese brings.
If you ever need encouragement or want to talk, swap ideas, or have a long distance workout buddy, feel free to get in touch. I am on:
Yahoo: tiffanylikesroses
Tumblr: cybria.tumblr.com
Twitter: duafe
Fitocracy: TiffanyHoward (this is a great site btw)
I’m on twitter @ TiffanyMarie617
Hi Tiffany,
I read your post and I was instantly SO PROUD OF YOU and really just touched by what you wrote…I started down your same path about two years ago and it has been hard, but so worth it. I’m down fifty pounds from where I started and still have some to go. If you ever ever need support or encouragement or ideas for “keeping on track” or just somewhere to vent I’d be happy to talk/email with you!!
I’m on twitter @TiffanyMarie617
Cassey, you are such an inspiration and a positive light in my life! You work so hard for all of your fans and we all appreciate everything you do! Unfortunately, some people just wait for someone like you to mess up because they love to see someone who is constantly happy, positive fall down. This is YOUR blog where you get to express YOUR feelings. I love Honey Boo Boo and her family because even though they live that “redneck” life the America loves to exploit, they have so much fun together and help each other no matter what, as a family should. Since you are a person who is SO extremely PASSIONATE about taking care of your body, I absolutely see why their lifestyle appalled you! And there is no shame in why you have those feelings. Being offended by something is a choice. If someone throws something at you, you can either let it hit you, or simply step out of the way and keep going.
Cassey, you are a fantastic motivator, thank you for helping me change my lifestyle and for offering all of your great videos and advice FOR FREE. Your Popsters LOVE you!
Cass, you spoke the truth. I understand that some people cannot control their weight due to medical reasons. HOWEVER, if there aren’t any issues, then it’s just being lazy and having excuses. This Honey Booboo show is vile and out right stupid! Any mother who feeds her children such a large amount of that kind of food is abusive ( my opinion). A cheeseburger here and there is ok and same goes with sweets but to constantly feed these things is horrid. Good job Cassey on saying what was on your chest. You rock!!!
Okay, Cassey is getting way too much criticism for a blog post that simply states the truth.
1. Let’s be realistic, the mom IS morbidly obese; and this is coming from someone who is also obese.
2. For those of you saying, they don’t have money to live a healthier lifestyle; that’s BS. You must not be aware of the thousands of dollars these people get paid–PER EPISODE! I’m a broke college graduate, working a low paying job with $50 dollars left each paycheck, and yet I managed to mke the effort to purchse healthy food options for myself. Whether theybe frozen, fresh, or whatever.
3. Cassey nver called the FAMILY disgusting, she called their eating habits that; and be realistic they are!
4. Just as Cassey is being real about their bad habits, she also states her sentimnt towards the harms they are causing themseves; which shows she speaks from a compassionate point of view.
5. Finally, if you support a program as useless as this show, you should be mad…not at Cassey but at yourself for supporting someone who is simply looking to profit off their child in that matter. This show provides no educational value what-so-ever.
So stop acting like parts of this blog post aren’t true, she was in no way being judgemental in regards to size, or economic status; she was simply stating her disstain for a lifestyle we all know has lead to the obesity epedemic in the US; and as part of the statistic, I wish someone would have educated meon living a healthy BALANCED lifestyle when I was younger–’cuz I wouldn’t be struggling with an unhealthy weight in my mid-20s.
Thanks for your blog post, Cassey; and ignore the comments. Sometmes people take offense when it’d a matter or people, in his case, they are fond of; which I can’t understand.
Sorry for the typos, I’m on my phone and keys get stuck. =)
Thank you Michelle. Thank you.
I didn’t mean disgusting I meant to put disturbing image sorry
This is hilarious. People are so terrible to each other.
I absolutely love you and your workouts Cassy but I do agree with comment made saying it was wrong I post honey boo boos hid of her grabbing her belly and call it a disgusting image . She is only a child and he was brought up into that unhealthy lifestyle as was I. I wasn’t brought into as bad a diet as theirs but I still had to mature and was lucky enough to realize at 17 tht I needed to change my lifestyle. I do fully agree thier lifestyle is extremely unhealthy. I seen the episodes where they were trying to lose weight ad was noy suprised at all when they gained 5lbs back and then some.with that being said , yes you could have been more harsh and used harsher terms, it is a fact the mother is morbidly obese and their diet is killing them but it also would have been good for you to notice the positive side of their outlook like in a lit of episodes the mother metions loving who they are no matter what size which is not a bad mindset to have and if they combine that outlook with a good diet they’ll be great! So I do agree with what you are saying just not the picture part.
& still love you though and understand we all have different views on things
you are right when you say “The fact that a majority of the family is overweight is not the problem. Fat is just a result of what you haven’t done to take care of your body.” and when they start to take care of them self they would look gorgeous.
don’t you think
You would love Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution!
Cassie, I really can not believe what you just said..I work out everyday doing an hour of cardio, as well as weight lifting and worked out with you for an hour at night. It is all about education. How dare you say she prob was asked to go on the Biggest Looser and said no. I had the pleasure at Christmas to drive four hours to the home and meet the family.They are so sweet, down to earth, and prob have never had anyone even offer to show them clean eating. Instead of bashing why don’t you offer to help them out!! Do not judge others because maybe just maybe they do not know anyother way. It takes more than diet, working out, it is also motivation which maybe no one has sparked that fire in them yet. I am really suprised at you for writing this. Do not bash others, motivate, encourage, and help those that you can.
Go away. You don’t have to be on here so if you don’t like it then just exit the blog!
I blame TLC for portraying this family as comic relief. They should educate the family so they can learn to make better food choices. I have never watched the show but I have come across various comments about them in the media. First of all Cassey was not harsh, it is what it is. Personally I don’t understand the fascination with these people. I guess it is like watching a train wreck. You want to look away but you just can’t,
Honestly, the fact that you used that .gif of HBB holding her stomach in your e-mail, followed up by “sorry for the disgusting image!” is absolutely body-shaming, whether you meant to do it or not, and it’s honestly upsetting to see something like that come from someone who’s generally such a positive force, as you are.
In the future, maybe consider taking a break from the keyboard when you’re so caught up in emotion? I think a lot of the discussion and disagreement going on stems from the fact that you were obviously very emotional when you wrote it, and we all say things we may not exactly mean when wrapped up in feelings. Yes, it’s your blog and you can do as you like, but when you’re basically a professional life-coach /role model to a huge audience, maybe it’d be best to step back, breathe, and properly plan a post like this before making it?
I don’t think it’s body shaming. Cassey pointed out that to this family, food is merely something fun to stick in your mouth a few times again, and the way she finds that tummy squeezing trick just to amuse the person behind the camera just confirms it. Her mom probably just laughed at it instead of seeing “My child is overweight, I should probably do something about this.” This isn’t a body shaming post. Obesity comes when people neglect their nutrition and lifestyle choices (I know this first hand from being obese all my life. I’m undoing a lot of the damage I learned as a kid). That gif just confirms it.
That was COMPLETELY body-shaming! How can you say that an adult classifying a child’s body as “a disgusting image” isn’t body-shaming?! I haven’t seen a comment yet in this section that stands up for the fact that June, her mom, is CONSTANTLY telling her children they are beautiful inside and out. If more parents would take the time to teach their children that bodies are all different and amazing, no matter what they eat or don’t eat, the world would be so much better. I’ve been overweight my entire life and if my mom had told me I was beautiful or worth anyone’s time, maybe I wouldn’t have cried while reading this blog post because this was almost one of the most hurtful things I’ve ever read coming from a fitness instructor.
Cassey, you made a conclusion about a family that you obviously know nothing about. I’m so sick of people judging other people for what they see on TV for 40 minutes. For all you know, they could have a freaking fitness room in their house and you’re sitting here telling them their 6 year old daughter is disgusting and they should be ashamed of their habits. Also, “It’d be cool if the mom could get on Biggest Loser. I bet they asked her before but she said no.” I’m sorry, but do you make this assumption for every overweight person you see, or just the ones you see eating butter? You make me feel like I (and other overweight people) shouldn’t even go out in public because god forbid I have to eat something in front of you or other people.
After reading this I had to watch the video. I was appalled. It’s horrendous seeing how a lot of Americans live. It’s all about the food, food, food. And I agree with you, Cassey — food is there to nourish our bodies. You shouldn’t eat it because you’re bored or because you’re sad. You were in no way offending anyone in my opinion. You were pointing out that, hey, you really shouldn’t treat your body like this. The mother’s body is crying for help, and god help the little girl when she develops diabetes at a young age.
Hey Cassey! First of all, I love you. You speak your mind and you have a very balanced, well-thought out argument for why you dislike the show. To me, eating unhealthy is a choice that everyone makes. Lets be honest, if this family is getting paid by TLC, and June and Sugar Bear (husband) clearly have enough money to buy butter, chips, turkey, and so on, then I’m pretty sure they can afford apples as well. Fresh produce is cheap. Even SuperWalmarts have a produce section…and this family has a car that can drive them to a decent grocery store, I’m sure. I watched some of the first season of this show, out of sheer fascination–WHY IS THIS FAMILY ON A TELEVISION SHOW?! Using the same mentality as Jersey Shore, I watched the show intently, trying to wait for some “Eureka!” moment when the family decides to treat their bodies better, focus less on pageanting (as Honey Boo Boo was originally famous for), and more on…well, anything more productive, really. And in a few episodes, they bring up the fact that the family is, in fact, trying to lose weight and be healthier. They do a couple of weigh-ins and kind of laugh it off, and I haven’t watched the show lately so I’m not sure if they are continuing their efforts to be healthier….
Unfortunately, for the same reasons that cast mates of the Jersey Shore continue to party excessively and fake-tan excessively, as long as HCHBB continues to pull in ratings for being exactly the way they are, they shall remain exactly the way they are. And it is outraging because its exploitation at its finest and there is really nothing we can do about it.
A note to the critics of Cassey: You are all misunderstanding her. She is outraged because she CARES! Its like when your a mom and you watch your child do something dangerous, you yell at first out of sheer instinct. You’re not mad at the child for what they did, you are afraid at what could have happened! And in Cassey’s case, she has JUST been hit with Honey Boo Boo. That’s like, a huge blow especially on a holiday episode…most of Boo Boo’s fans have been exposed to her enough times to have the initial shock wear off a bit. Another thing, if you think you can resonate with this family because you are struggling with your weight, just stop it. They don’t want to change, and you do. That’s why you were on Cassey’s blog to begin with. And for anyone to say: “I work out and try to eat right and it doesn’t work”…Guess what! IT DOES. You just need to work harder, be patient, and believe. “Can’t” is the cancer of “happen”, people!! Why would you ever want to set limits for what you can do with your own body?! That’s like saying “I’m too dumb to go to university.” We all have the capabilities, we just have different levels of drive and–to an extent–resources that can make each of our paths unique.
And if you think Cassey was being a snob or on a “high horse”, guess what, she works her BUTT off a lot more than we all do! I personally have been at my goal weight for a few years now, and guess what: You have to work out JUST AS HARD IF NOT HARDER once you’re there. Eating healthy and exercising on a regular basis isn’t just some ends to a mean, after which you can sit on your skinny butt and judge others. Cassey’s career is dedicated to making sure we all live longer, healthier, stronger lives and no one YouTuber has ever made me as happy as she has. She inspires us all every day by being enthusiastic, positive and strong–so to bash her for feeling outraged over a show that deserves NO praise, I think, is quite contradictory to what we’re all trying to do here.
I love this:
“Can’t” is the cancer of “happen”, people!!
LOVE the video as a matter of face I love all of the videos that you put out!!!!
Cassey said nothing offensive. Morbidly obese is a technical term that honey boo boo’s mom happens to fall into the category of. That whole show serves no purpose but to exploit that poor little girl and her family. Yes theu get paid, but theu are constantly mocked. South park did an episode about them, and I really don’t think when that girl is older and sees that that she’ll be to happy. Cassey was just bringing to attention that instead of mocking and exploiting the family, someone should be helping them out. Help them to make healthier choices and improve their quality of living. Must they all be a size two? Of course not! That’s not her point at all. She’s saying they need to eat better so they can be at a weight that allows them to be more energetic and not be good candidates for a variety of health concerns.
First of all, I love the new video, along with all your 100+ videos that you gave us over 3 years. I do ALL 100+ of them every month, so I’ll get to the new HIITs in one of next week’s sessions.
However, I do need to express my beef with the Gallon-A-Day water rule. My beef is not against Cassey personally, but with the health/fitness industry urging us to down this much water. Every. Single. Day.
I don’t like to drink so much water. I especially have an aversion to water in the winter, because I get even less thirsty in colder months. I have tried on occasion to do the “8 glasses a day”, and I just got sick of drinking, and it was uncomfortable and annoying to pee every friggin’ half hour!
It’s one thing if a person has a habit of drinking lots of unhealthy, sugary fluids to quench thirst, then all that fluid could be replaced with water. However, I don’t drink much of anything until I get thirsty, which sometimes happens at the end of the day, and then about a pint of water is enough to quench me. Once I’m quenched I just don’t want anymore.
Is it really necessary to force down fluids that I don’t want? If a daily gallon of water is that essential, shouldn’t it feel good drink it?
Also, I’ve heard of new research now showing that we DON’T have to drink this much daily water after all. What’s up with that?
Hi Aruna,
I have to admit I was skeptical at first too. I didn’t want to drink that much water, in fact I hated how it felt to down that much water. I used to drink maybe 16oz a day, but I tried drinking more water and made a decision for x amount of weeks I would drink what I had heard a Doctor recommend, take your body weight and divide it in half and that is the amount of water you should drink. At that time, that meant over a hundred ounces, so I made slow increments of progress toward that amount. As the weight came down, I was then ‘required’ (in my own mind) to drink less. Now, six years later, I still drink four 24 oz bottles of water a day, which is over the recommended eight glasses of 8oz and the rule that I live by. Honestly, I can’t live without it and I often drink more than that. Just like any new habit it takes time to get used to it. And you would be amazed how much your body begins to crave it once you make it a habit. As for the needing to hit the pot every half an hour, yes, that happened to me at first too. (lol, it was kinda embarrassing!) But, your bladder begins to stretch and you can hold it longer, also that urge to pee at the beginning of a water regimen is simply your body trying to clean out the toxins. Just start with a cute water bottle and carry it around like an accessory, now I never leave home without one!
I hope this helps!
Thanks for the tips. I’ll try it…one day at a time.
Oh, and congrats on your weight loss. :)
Cassey, this is off topic, but will you be getting any more of the capri bottoms in stock on shopblogilates?
Those arguing that eating healthy is expensive salad and grillled chicken can be very simple and inexpensive and gyms like planet fitness provide exercise at an affordable price. If they really wanted to get healthy they would try. The post is not about their appearance it’s about their lifestyle. They have acquired such a large fanbase that it’s sad to see them glorifying unhealthy eating patterns. People can be easily influenced by television and that is something a lot of shows need to consider not just this one.
I totally agree with you Cassey! After reading this I watched a clip on the show and I think you were right to be worried.To those of you who don’t agree with Cassey, she did not say ONE WORD about her being better than them, and she did not judge them for being overweight. Cassey is showing a genuine concern for the health of that family and other families like that! And it is very concerning – not only does their terrible diet make them obese and reduce their quality and length of life, it also means other people’s taxes end up going towards healthcare for unhealthy people who contract diseases and problems that would not exist if their diets were healthier. Cassey has simply inspired and encouraged us to spread the word about living a healthy lifestyle, so that everyone can feel amazing, live longer, and live happier lives!
You’re awesome Cassey! :)
Cassey, I have always found myself inspired by your light and positivity. I’ve never met you personally, but because I do your workouts with you most days of the week, I feel like we are friends.. I’ve always felt encouraged by you, until now. Not because this post was written with a generally negative tone, but because I feel like I have been fooling myself by believing that a friend has been supportive of me all this time. The reason I get through your tough and effective workouts is because I feel like you want to help me, but after reading this, I feel like I have been made fun of.
Cassey, that gif of Honey Boo Boo you posted with her belly flap, the one you called “disturbing”, I’ve had that belly flap since I was three. I still have it now. I’ve never lost that belly flap, EVER in my life. I’ve tried many different diets in the past, I’ve adhered to your meal plans and had been very good about doing your workout videos, and It NEVER disappeared. The reason I continue to follow your workouts is because I see other positive results.
But not everyone is the same. Not everyone lives the same lifestyle. Just because someone might like how something makes them feel, doesn’t mean everyone else will like doing it, Just because I like something’s effect on me, doesn’t mean everyone else will like it on them. The world is wonderfully diverse, and this is the reason why different cultures and cuisines are celebrated.. I’m Filipino, and Can I just say, eating Filipino Cuisine is RARELY (if ever) considered, “eating clean”. My point is, People live differently, people are built differently. Life is beautiful like that. Just because a person has a belly flap doesn’t mean they look “disturbing”. “Morbidly Obese”? I’m sure you’ve read of people with perfect abs who’ve died of starvation..
You wrote that, “Fat is just a result of what you haven’t done to take care of your body”, Really, Cassey?
everyone has Adipocytes. these cells are essential to a human being so that they could store fat and the body could eventually turn it into energy. Fat is not “just a result of what you haven’t done to take care of your body”, fat can also be energy. Energy is needed to workout.. but I thought you would already know this.
Also, I found it especially interesting when you wrote that Honey Boo Boo and her family sees “Food as a thing. A thing you simply buy and put in your mouth because you’re supposed to eat a few times a day. The faster the better”… It’s interesting, because that is EXACTLY how I feel when I eat clean foods. I end up craving the burgers, the fries, the white rice, the chips… you know, the food that really makes life worth living.
Despite feeling let down, I think I picked something very good up from reading this post. I learned that I should be proud of the way I view people and things… That my appreciation for people’s natural build and outward appearance is priceless and rare indeed, in this society. I’ve never loved my belly flap as much as I do, right now.. so I really do sincerely thank you.
And to the people complaining about the comments that disagree with this post, really guys? since when was disagreement a bad thing? Opinions are opinions.
Hey Katrice! Thanks for your comment. I suppose the way I wrote this post sounded intense but I in no way meant to offend anyone who is overweight or has a belly flap or who doesn’t have a belly flap. I just wanted to bring to light how appalled I was at the show and pick at the reason why america has an obesity problem. it starts with the nutrition. filipino food is amazing. i love lumpia and chicken adobo and everything your beautiful culture offers. i hope you don’t think i am not supportive of you because i am.
“I in no way meant to offend anyone who is overweight or has a belly flap”
Um, in the newsletter promoting this post you posted a gif of a SEVEN YEAR OLD squeezing her belly fat and then stated, “Sorry for the disturbing image.” You not only fat shamed, you fat shamed a CHILD.
still love your awesome videos, Cassey. :)
and thank you. :)
Go away. You don’t have to be on here so if you don’t like it then just exit the blog!
Who cares about whether the post is offensive or not? As someone who can say that food directly affects my mood, I’m concerned about how children’s diets are not properly balanced to support a healthy attitude and outlook. I think this is also a concern in the case of Honey Boo Boo although it would make for less interesting tv ;)
This blog entry is NOT too harsh, in fact I thought it was quite restrained.
What does lathering everything in butter have to do with limited finances? Sure, maybe they cannot afford fresh veggies so they get canned, but how can you argue that their finances prevent them from eating healthy foods when they stick a tub of butter on everything? Obviously none of the criticizers on here have worked in an endocrinology department of a children’s hospital and seen how parents ruin their children’s lives and bodies shoving what can only be described us trash down there throats. And there is always an excuse; I love when people use the ‘genetic’ or ‘glandular problem’ argument. Actually, if you eat properly, exercise, and GO TO THE DOCTOR to get the appropriate medications that you obviously need if your ‘glands’ aren’t functioning correctly, you won’t be fat anymore. I have hypothyroidism, as do a massive amount of other people. I’m only 24. I started to gain weight despite living a healthy life so I went to the doctor, had my thyroxine levels checked, started taking the prescribed appropriate amount of thyroxine and BAM no more weight issues.
Goodness me, people are so unnecessarily sensitive these days. Get over it, stop making excuses and harden up.
Sorry for being so negative Cassey, ignorance just makes me mad!
Well said!!!
Have you ever heard of a food desert?
Just so you know, not everyone can tell with their thyroid issues so easily. I know people who have been to the doctors, eat right yet still remain overweight. Drugs don’t always work, And they are not the solution to everything
They don’t give you ‘drugs’ for thyroid issues…as it is a hormonal imbalance (and this is evident by testing the level of the hormone thyroxine in your blood stream) the medication that you are given is simply that; a hormone replacement. How can you possibly say that replacing a deficient hormone ‘won’t work’?
Oh dear.
I never watch that TV show, but the amount of butter that you told us, Wow! That’s pretty crazy :/
Anyway, I’m not really a veggie person. Do you have any special tips for not-really-veggie lover like me?
Thanks!
I love you Cassey and I completely agree with you!!! Actually I wish you were even more harsh on the family. The mom is absolutely disgusting for what she had taught her children. I watched one episode and one of the first things I noticed was the only two that aren’t fat was the pregnant one and the father. I also love the South Park episode that makes fun of this family.
Hey Cassey!! I do not watch that show for every reason you just found out!!!! Disgrace :(