DO YOU EXERCISE?
Yes, I do a lot of brisk walking and a little bit of swimming.
GET YOUR FIVE-A-DAY?
I eat a lot of vegetables but I’m careful with fruit because I have a problematic digestive system.
EVER DIETED?
I’m 5 ft 8 in and I’ve weighed between nine and nine-and-a-half stone all my adult life. I never overeat, but I don’t think anything should be forbidden unless you’re allergic or intolerant to it.
ANY VICES?
Chips, ideally out of a paper bag with vinegar. I’m on and off with smoking; I do well and then some emotional hiccup happens, I’ll have one and it’s hard to give it up for a month or so.
ANY FAMILY AILMENTS?
My mother was in a concentration camp and was malnourished for two-and-a-half years. I think I’ve inherited my digestive issues from her.
WORST ILLNESS OR INJURY?
A problematic neck due to scoliosis (a twisted spine). If I’m sitting next to someone, I have to turn my body or my neck muscles go into spasm.
POP ANY PILLS?
I take vitamin C, zinc and echinacea in the winter to help fight off colds, and magnesium and calcium for the bones.
TRIED ALTERNATIVE REMEDIES?
I see an acupuncturist twice a month to help with my digestion, stiff neck, bad back and circulation.
EVER BEEN DEPRESSED?
Losing my hearing in my mid-50s was depressing. I now wear hearing aids in both ears. I also felt very low during both my divorces. On my mother’s side of the family, there is manic depression. Touch wood, I don’t think I have that.
