Gemma Collins has spoken out about her struggles with weight after having an underactive thyroid and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The 41 year old opened up her “constant battle” with her weight recently after being diagnosed with PCOS, a condition that effects how ovaries work, which can lead to weight gain as the body becomes more resistant to insulin.
Gemma said “its not been easy for me” as she discussed her weight issues in a new interview.
Speaking at her Essex home, the TOWIE star told The Mirror: “It’s not as easy for me, hormonally, to keep my weight stable all the time. People don’t understand.
“I’ve got under active thyroid, I've got PCOS, It just means that I have to work extra hard at [keeping fit and working out].”
Gemma listed US singer Lizzo as a great body-positive figure who inspires her to “love herself”, and hopes she can do the same for others in sharing her story.
She said: “Look at Lizzo, she’s a real inspiration to me. I’m loving myself along that [fitness] journey and you now that’s a real important message. It's just a constant battle you know, so I have to keep on top of it every day.”
Gemma received praise from a fan recently after she stepped out amid the UK heatwave wearing a bikini in an Instagram video.
The follower messaged: “Just wanted to message and say thank you. I haven't had the confidence to buy or wear a bikini in about 20 years.
"I have just purchased one of yours from your New Look collection and I feel fabulous in it and can’t wait to wear it on holiday.”
Gemma said that the fan’s reaction “made her so happy”, as she continued: “And you know… that was just… it made me feel so happy for that lady you know.”
Hoping to inspire more fans, she said: “I am an inspiration, in inspire so many people. I keep it real, at the end of the day that’s why people love me.
“Yes, the GC is a character but I’m really down to earth and I really empathies with anyone out there who is struggling, on a daily basis, with their weight.
“At the end of the day we’re all beautiful – we all come in different shapes and sizes.”
Gemma’s interview comes after she shared a photo of herself younger as she illustrated how PCOS can effect a person’s weight.
She wrote: “That picture shows you that when people do get thyroid problems or PCOS, it can really [affect you].
“You can see my frame is small, but I'm constantly battling with the condition that I have. People just think that you’re overweight because you eat all day, but that’s not true, hun.”
READ MORE:
- Gemma Collins fans question 'where are your trousers' as she appears naked from waist down
- Gemma Collins compared to Cher from Clueless in epic throwback snap
- Gemma Collins shares unexpected TV ambition and slams 'snobs' for doubting her: 'I'm a megastar'
- Jacqueline Jossa and Gemma Collins lead stars soaking up sun in bikinis on hottest day ever in UK
Get exclusive celebrity stories and shoots straight to your inbox with OK!'s daily newsletter
Source: Read Full Article