Israel Bans "Too Thin" Models
The Israeli government passed a new law banning "underweight" models, in an effort to fight the spread of eating disorders.
Known as the "Photoshop Law," the legislation will require models to have a BMI of at least 18.5 and provide medical proof of their weight. Ads must also contain warnings if images have been edited to make the model appear thinner.
According to the World Health Organization, any person with a BMI (body mass index) of less than 18.5 is characterized as "malnourished." To you give a sense of perspective here, a woman who is 5 feet, 5 inches must weigh at least 119 pounds to meet the new standard.
"This law will send a message to teenagers that being thin is acceptable, but slimness has its limits, and there is such a thing as too thin," said Knesset Member Rachel Adatto who sponsored the bill, according to Ynetnews.
An estimated 2 percent of all girls between 14 and 18 in Israel have severe eating disorders, anthropologist Sigal Gooldin told the AP.
But not everyone is in favor of the bill. Critics include models and agencies who argue that some completely healthy - but naturally thin - women might be disqualified from appearing in ads.
Top Israeli model Adi Neumman says that with a BMI of 18.3, she would not be able to work under the new rules, despite the fact that she says she eats well and exercises.
"Force actual tests. Make girls go to a doctor. Get a system to follow girls who are found to be puking," she told reporters.
What do you think? Is the new law a smart move or is it unfair to girls who are naturally skinny?
Resources for parents - learn more about eating disorder signs and symptoms.
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