My new documentary, Joe Wicks: Licensed to Kill

I really stepped out my comfort zone for the first time with my new documentary – Joe Wicks: Licensed to Kill – to tackle a big problem facing us all.

The documentary is all about uncovering the harmful effects a diet high in ultra-processed food is having on our health and to pressure the government and the food companies to make some changes.

I’ve always cared about people’s diet and nutrition, but it was only after reading Dr Chris Van Tulleken's book Ultra Processed People that I really opened my eyes to this issue.

I had no idea that the ingredients and additives in many of the foods we eat on a regular basis have been linked to an increased risk of stroke, dementia, depression, and early death.

This was totally new to me and once I understood this, I felt like I needed to get this message out there and share the truth.

There really is a strong and growing body of science and evidence now to show that these foods are damaging our health. I really believe we shouldn't accept this as the norm and carry on as we are.

We deserve a chance to eat better.

My aim isn’t to demonise or ban these foods, but rather to help consumers understand and be able to make a more informed choice about the foods they are consuming.

The UK is the largest consumer of UPF in the world after the US. Up to 80% of a child’s diet in low income families in the UK is made of UPF. I myself grew up on the same diet, so this is really important to me.

I want to help parents and children eat better and I really believe the documentary is a step in the right direction.

Please tune in October 6th at 8pm on Channel 4.

Thank you, Joe

Joe Wicks: Licensed to Kill airs on October 6th at 8pm on Channel 4.