Ban on models with BMI less than 18.5

This is not necessarily new news, as the ban in Israel for models with a BMI less than 18.5 was passed back in March 2012.  But as of January 1, 2013, Israeli models have to

• show their BMI is 18.5 and
• any photos which are digitally altered need to state they have been changed to make the models appear thinner.

Other countries have had “guidelines” to try to improve the healthiness of models and the images they project: having healthy snacks for models, trying to make the sample size larger, not allowing girls under age 16, watching for eating disorders and discouraging other unhealthy habits like smoking.  But these were guidelines.  Israel has taken it a step farther.

What is BMI?

BMI is a calculation of your weight and height. BMI of 18.5 or less is underweight, BMI of 25 or more is overweight.  For models, this means if you are 5’8″ you need to weigh 118, if you are 6″ you need to weigh 136.

The ban was passed to “break the illusion that the model we see is real.”  They want to promote healthier body image.  There are thought to be connections between the media print of ultra thin models and eating disorders.  The Royal College of Psychiatrists in England has published its thoughts criticizing the media for using underweight models and airbrushing. Dr Adrienne Key  (Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Eating Disorders Section) is quoted, “There is a growing body of research that shows the media plays a part in the development of eating disorder symptoms – particularly in adolescents and young people.”

As for those who say they are ‘naturally thin” Dr. Adato said only 5% of women are in that category.  “So putting on a pound or two to break that barrier shouldn’t be that difficult for anyone.”

Unrealistic images and expectations breed discontent and unhappiness when you can’t meet that image. I see this when beautiful, fit women come in focused on a small area, which seemingly no one else would notice. (Unrealistic expectations even worse because of airbrushing. see the photo link below.)  I hope the trend in Israel catches on.