Who is feeding them?

I agreed about the freak show aspect. I sort of wandered onto this channel and ended up watching in horror when I ought to have turned over. But this is a problem that's costing more and more each year. It's leading to an increase in type 2 diabetes, and specialist equipment is needed. And yet it's entirely preventable. Watching TV shows such as The Chase last week I was struck by how most of the contestants were well overweight, not to mention three of the Chasers!
Without wishing to offend other GNetters, though I suppose I will, isn't it time some serious thinking took place about this issue?

Probably, particularly in the USA they are are so darn poor and can't afford medical care they don't have much option for survival but to "freak show" themselves. Like like the Elephant man or Daniel Lambert who was seriously obese.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Lambert

They are being used as freak shows but they must be willing and probably get paid.
I agree with Orca though, there has to be someone else,
complicit in this when someone is otherwise bed ridden. It is very misguided help or love or whatever.

Agreed.

Well I'm going to be very judgemental about these types of programmes - I think they are appalling and a modern day version of Victorian freak shows - we should never watch them!

I've seem several of these type of programs.They intimidate family and friends,call delivery people of fast foods,they find a way. some families are enablers and cook whatever they want because they feel sorry or too kind to say no.There is a hospital in NY where they live and are put on low cal. Diets but if they order food delivered the head of the hospital doesn't stop them.He says they are adults and that it is there choice.

I was trying not to be judgemental but to be fair I find it hard to understand. My query was directed at those who are caring for these people and providing their food.

Sorry I assumed in your post that by asking " who keeps feeding these unfortunates" that it was a form of judgement, my apologies if that was not intended.

Where did I judge?

orca I can see from your post that you or anyone close to you have probably never had any issues with food. Have never had to use food as something to hide behind. Please dont judge people until you have all the facts.

Can you be sure it's got anything to do with food?