Victoria’s Secret: Candace Swanepoel and the big eating disorder lie

The Victoria’s Secret annual fashion show is quite possibly the biggest televised event of its kind in the world. The lingerie showcase is broadcast to millions all over the world and is watched by arguably millions more on the web.

As well as the glitter, trademark wings, one inevitable supermodel bouncing back after popping out a kid, showing off her post-baby bod in all its toned glory and special musical guest to mix things up a bit – this year being renowned pothead Rihanna – the Victoria’s Secret fashion shows are also characterised by “candid” shots of the supermodels being tweeted and then retweeted with a vengeance where they are shown being caught “off-guard” and always having “fun” before the show.

Of particular note this year was a pic South African stunner Candice Swanepoel who uploaded a pic on Instagram showing her ruthlessly defined, concave abs.

Predictably, this picture was met with concerned types who really have nothing better to do with their day who cried anorexia.

Look at the image again.

What does it say to you?

Call me crazy, but nothing about those abs screams “eating disorder”.

An anorexic suffering from chronic fatigue that is seriously depleted of fuel in the form of essential nutrients would not have the strength to take part in all the ruthless crunches, planks, Pilates, yoga, cardio and God knows what else to strengthen one’s core to get it to look like something resembling this.

Of course, any health and fitness regime is 80 per cent food and 20 per cent exercise.

 

Swanepoel and her fellow Victoria’s Secret angels have an army of personal trainers, nutritionists, dieticians and beauticians that help to whip them into shape.

True clotheshorses will maintain their shape in between jobs – up to an extent. Just before a major shoot or show, any supermodel worth her salt will ramp up her exercise and diet regime to bring the goods and shake their moneymaker up and down that catwalk.

That shot of Swanepoel’s six-pack? It says sacrifice, pain, success, exercise, diet and dedication.

Eating disorder? It does not.