In Mauritania, obesity is traditionally regarded as desirable, and the subsequent practice of force-feeding ('Leblouh') girls as young as five is rife as a result. Older women called "fatteners" force the would-be bride to consume enormous amounts in order to make them as attractive as possible to potential suitors. 'Leblouh' stems from the 11th century idea that being overweight was an indication of wealth. It has been reported to have made a significant comeback after a military junta took over the country in 2008.