"Super Size Me" is a 2004 American documentary film directed by and starring Morgan Spurlock. The film documents Spurlock's month-long experiment in which he ate nothing but McDonald's food three times a day, in an attempt to investigate the effects of fast food on the human body.
The film begins with Spurlock explaining his motivation for the experiment. He was inspired by a lawsuit that had been brought against McDonald's by two teenagers who claimed that the fast food chain was responsible for their obesity. Spurlock wanted to see if it was possible for someone to gain weight and suffer negative health effects from eating nothing but McDonald's food for an extended period of time.
To conduct the experiment, Spurlock enlisted the help of three doctors and a nutritionist, who monitored his health and provided guidance throughout the month. He also set a few rules for himself: he had to eat every item on the McDonald's menu at least once, and he had to "super size" his meal (meaning he had to order a larger portion size) if asked by the cashier.
As Spurlock embarked on his fast food journey, he quickly noticed the effects on his body. Within days, he experienced an increase in his cholesterol levels and a decrease in his energy levels. He also struggled with feelings of depression and irritability.
Despite these negative effects, Spurlock continued to eat McDonald's food for the entire month, documenting his journey on camera. He also visited various experts, including a cardiologist and a food industry lobbyist, to get their perspectives on the fast food industry and its impact on public health.
Throughout the film, Spurlock presents a compelling argument against the fast food industry, highlighting the unhealthy ingredients and marketing tactics used by companies like McDonald's. He also explores the larger societal and cultural issues that contribute to the proliferation of fast food in America, such as the lack of access to healthy food options in low-income neighborhoods.
In the end, Spurlock's experiment is a shocking and eye-opening look at the dangers of fast food and the importance of making healthier choices. "Super Size Me" has had a significant impact on public perception of fast food and has sparked important discussions about the role of the food industry in public health.
