Magic Mike star Matthew McConaughey has been snapped looking shockingly frail on the set of his latest film, prompting fears he may have taken things a step too far in the name of art.
The 43-year-old actor appeared pale and emaciated as he caught a flight from Los Angeles to New Orleans, and is reported to have dropped a staggering 14kg for his role as an AIDS patient in upcoming film, The Dallas Buyers Club.
The movie, set to be released next year, is currently filming in New Orleans, where Matthew’s pregnant wife, Camila Alves, has been spotted visiting the set with their two young children, Levi, 4, and Vida, 2.
“Matthew starts shooting this weekend, so he’s at his absolute lowest weight,” a source close to the star revealed. “In a month, he’ll begin to put it back on”.
With weight fluctuations a common practice among Hollywood’s elite, many fear that high-profile actors are setting a poor example for their young fans.
“Rapid weight loss puts people at risk of missing out on essential nutrients”, warn experts at the Dietitians Association of Australia. “Carbohydrates, protein, fats and other vitamins and minerals are all essential for the body to stay healthy”. According to the DAA, dramatic weight loss “puts people at risk of chronic health issues including high cholesterol and high blood pressure.”
Other long-term health risks associated with drastic weight loss include heart disease, loss of muscle tissue, osteoporosis and reduced immune function.
The DAA advises that “anyone (including actors) looking to gain or lose weight, should speak to an expert – an Accredited Practising Dietitian”.
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