New Weight Watchers Policy Sparks Backlash

An new incentive by Weight Watchers has caused controversy on social media. On Wednesday, Weight Watchers announced free memberships for kids ages 13 to 17 this summer, to encourage healthy living at a young age. The move is to "inspiring healthy habits for real life," says Weight Watchers CEO Mindy Grossman. The company says the new policy is part of its new focus, shifting from dieting to wellness. But not everyone is supporting Weight Watchers' new direction. This weekend, the hashtag #WakeUpWeightWatchers trended on Twitter, from followers sharing how their experiences at Weight Watchers during their teens affected their health, self-esteem, and more. Take a read through the hashtags for the stories. (Disclosure: Strutter contributed to the hashtag.) Weight Watchers noticed the social media backlash, and released a statemen t aimed at NEDA , who linked early dieting to eating disorder. Acknowledging that teenagers are "at a critical life stage," Weight Watchers assured the non-profit it will take precautions to provide a safe experience for its young clientele.