Rachel English, presenter of RTÉ Radio 1's Five Seven Live show tells Patricia Weston good intentions to stick to a well-balanced diet can be more difficult in practice
Do you take regular exercise?
Yes. I'm lucky enough to live about a mile and a half from work, so I walk there and back every day. I also love swimming in the sea during the summer.
Would you consider yourself fit?
Well, I'm not super-fit but I hope that all the walking does some good.
Do you worry about your appearance?
It doesn't keep me awake at night but I'd be lying if I said I never thought about it.
Is there anything about your body you'd like to change?
I have very droopy eyes. It's a hereditary thing and I'd happily change them.
Would you ever consider cosmetic surgery?
I had to go to a cosmetic surgeon a few years ago after the piercing in my ear split. As he was sewing it up again, I asked if it was possible to get anything else done on the VHI. Alas, it wasn't.
Do you eat a balanced diet?
Sometimes. I eat a lot of rubbish at work. But I try to eat a proper meal (ie one with vegetables) in the evening.
Ever tried any faddy diets?
No. And if I did I don't think I'd be able to stick to it.
What stresses you?
I'd love to be able to say nothing, but I'm afraid work does stress me.
How do you unwind?
There's a lot to be said for sleep. I also find that a good brisk walk does the head a lot of good as does going to a sporting event, of any kind.
Patricia Weston recommends:
Just because you're busy running around in work all day your diet shouldn't have to suffer. Here are some healthy snack ideas from Margot Brennan of the Irish Nutrition & Dietetic Institute (INDI):
Supermarkets do carton soups that are quick and easy to prepare and are a great source of healthy vegetables and low in fat.
Plan ahead if you know you have a busy week and bring cereals, baked beans and even left-over pasta from your evening meals into work and keep them in the staff canteen for quick and nutritious snacks.
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates teacher.