Reality shows like Love Island ‘encourage young people to drink more booze,’ experts warn
YOUNG fans of Love Island may be more likely to get hooked on booze, a study suggests.
Researchers found the reality TV show features more alcohol than other prime time programmes.
And they warn seeing sexy contestants knocking back drinks encourages viewers to consume more.
University of Nottingham boffins analysed 112 episodes of reality TV screened in the UK in 2018.
It included Love Island, Geordie Shore, Celebrity Big Brother, Made in Chelsea and Towie.
All 112 episodes, aired from January to August, contained alcohol or alcohol content, such as wine glasses.
“Initiation of smoking and alcohol use at a young age is a strong risk factor for dependence and continued use in later life.
“Our analysis shows that reality television programmes are a major source of exposure to young people in the UK and is likely to be a contributor to smoking and alcohol uptake by young people.”
The findings are published in the Journal of Public Health.
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