The contestants on "The Biggest Loser" have numerous feel-good stories that feature almost unbelievable losses in weight. Danny Cahill, who holds the record for biggest weight loss, dropped 239 pounds in just seven months to weigh in at 191 pounds.
However, a recent New York Post report reveals the NBC reality show's secret tactics to make those stories happen.
Earlier this month, a research study published an explanation why a majority of "Biggest Loser" contestants regain massive amounts of weight after the show.
In that study, scientists discovered that nearly all of the contestants have slower resting metabolisms than would be typical for their weight and lower levels of leptin, a hormone that controls hunger cravings.
Former contestants reached out to the Post, claiming that they were provided illicit drugs to help lose weight.
Now, contestants want to set the record straight following the research study.
From the New York Post report:
"“That show is so corrupt,” a source close to production says.
This source confirms that show trainer Bob Harper and one of his assistants have supplied contestants with Adderall and “yellow jackets” — pills that contain ephedra extract. Ephedra is used to promote weight loss and boost energy, and was banned by the FDA in 2004.
“Bob Harper was my trainer,” says Joelle Gwynn, of 2008’s “Couples” season. “He goes away and his assistant comes in. He’s got this brown paper bag that’s bundled up. He says, ‘Take this drug, it’ll really help you.’ It was yellow and black. I was like, ‘What the (expletive) is this?’”
The show's doctor Rob Huizenga, known as "Dr. H", and trainer Bob Harper denied the accusations.
NBC producers released a statement that reads, “The safety and well-being of our contestants is, and always has been, paramount. We prohibit the use of any illegal substances, in addition to the many other rules and procedures of the show that are designed to ensure safety.”
"The Biggest Loser" debuted on NBC in 2004 and recently finished its 17th season.