Rapper backs childhood anti-obesity campaign

27/04/2006 - 17:23:10
Rapper 50 Cent has put his weight behind a campaign to help prevent childhood obesity in the US.

The star, who has bared his washboard stomach on album covers, is spokesman and judge for a cooking competition aimed at improving high school students’ eating habits.

Student chefs in cities across the nation will compete to win a university scholarship by creating the most “nutrient-rich” cafeteria lunch recipe.

The contest is sponsored by the company Glaceau, which is partly owned by the rapper sells his grape-flavored Vitamin Water drink, Formula 50.

He said it was a lot more difficult for youngsters to stick to a healthy diet.

Despite his toned appearance, 50 admits he was not always so physically fit.

“I had all of the unhealthy habits,” the 29-year-old said.

“Soda... a lot of fast food, all those things.”

Now he exercises regularly and eats nutritious meals with the help of a personal chef.