Gemma Collins' dad is "not the same man" after getting long COVID.

Gemma Collins

Gemma Collins

The 40-year-old TV star has admitted to being distressed by her dad's health troubles, after he was previously diagnosed with coronavirus and spending time in hospital.

Asked about her dad's health situation, Gemma replied: "He's got long COVID. He's not the same man he was before he went into hospital.

"He's very tired, he gets weak, he gets out of breath and still coughs a lot. It's really distressing, but we're just so grateful that he's alive and hope he will come through the long COVID soon."

By contrast, Gemma has managed to lose three stone thanks to her new fitness regime and she's currently feeling better than ever.

The reality star - who rose to fame on 'The Only Way Is Essex' - explained to new! magazine: "I feel more confident than ever. I don't weigh myself every week. Although, to be honest, I did this week and I lost another half a stone.

"I'm on a high fat diet. It's all personal, though - what works for me won't work for you. But it's not really about what the scales are saying, it's about how you feel."

Gemma admits it's nice to "feel healthy" - and she isn't worrying too much about what the scales are telling her.

She said: "I feel amazing, it's nice to be getting into smaller clothes, but more than anything it's just nice to feel healthy.

"It doesn't matter what the scales say, it's about how you feel."

Asked what she's been doing to get in shape, Gemma replied: "I do cardio, weights, skipping rope ... it depends what mood I'm in, really.

"I like to switch it up. I'm not a routine girl. Oh, God, stick me in a routine, honey, I'm out that door.

"It's so good for your mental health as well, and clearing the cobwebs away."


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