Super Size Me

"Super Size Me" is a 2004 American documentary film directed by and starring Morgan Spurlock, which examines the impact of fast food on individual health and the corporate influence of the fast food industry. Over a 30-day period from February 1 to March 2, 2003, Spurlock exclusively ate at McDonald's restaurants, consuming every item on the menu at least once and eating three meals a day. He averaged about 5,000 calories daily, more than twice the recommended amount for an adult male, and walked approximately 2 kilometers daily, aligning with the average physical activity of an American. As a result of the experiment, Spurlock gained 11.1 kg, increasing his body weight by 13%, his cholesterol level rose to 230 mg/dL, and his body fat percentage went from 11% to 18%. He also experienced mood swings, decreased energy, sexual dysfunction, and liver damage. Doctors monitoring his condition were alarmed by the rapid deterioration of his health. The film also explores how the fast food industry contributes to obesity, particularly among youth, and criticizes marketing strategies targeting children. Spurlock visits schools to demonstrate how diet affects student behavior and performance and discusses nutrition and health issues with experts. After completing the experiment, it took Spurlock 14 months to return to his original weight with the help of a vegan diet designed by his then-girlfriend, chef Alex Jamieson. The film received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It also impacted the fast food industry; notably, McDonald's discontinued its "super size" option shortly after the film's release, although the company denied any connection between the two events.