‘Cinderella diet’ push for low BMI fuels eating disorders, Dr. Mike warns

It turns out the “Cinderella diet” is not a fairy tale of any kind, according to Dr. Mikhail Varshavski, who said it’s going viral for all the wrong reasons. 

“This is fueling a fetish … for being underweight and creating eating disorders,” Dr. Mike told Maria Bartiromo on FOX Business’ “Mornings with Maria.”

The weight-loss practice originated in Japan and encourages striving for a body mass index (BMI) of about 18, which puts people in an “underweight” category.

The risks of being underweight include cardiac damage, depressed immune function and early onset osteoporosis, Dr. Mike said.

In order to achieve a healthy BMI, Dr. Mike recommends discussing diet and exercise with your doctor.