Highlands-born DR GILLIAN McKEITH has made it her life’s work to have us all eating better. Which is fine. But what she does do when the Scissor Sisters come on the CD player and what would she like to do with Robbie Williams?
In which historical period would you love to have lived?
The caveman era. because they had a healthy diet. But frankly, I much prefer the era that we are in now because I am a conduit for immense change.
Your house is on fire, loved ones and pets are safe. You have a chance to go and retrieve one thing, what would it be?
My first print edition of my books You Are What You Eat and the new one You Are What You Eat Cookbook. The first editions have special sentimental value.
What’s the longest time you’ve slept soundly in one go over the last five years?
Nine hours.
What was the last thing you stole?
l don‘t steal.
What’s your least favourite country?
I do not diss countries. When I go to any country, |
128 THE LIST 3’. Mar—1.1 Apr 2005
make the effort to immerse myself in the culture and lifestyle. I always find something special in each place.
What’s the most rock’n’roll thing you’ve done today?
I bought the Scissors Sister album and danced like crazy to it in the living room. I sang out loud. in tune. using my liquid algae bottle as a microphone.
If you could wake up tomorrow and have obtained one ability what would it be?
To be a rock star and duet with Robbie Williams. How many times a day do you look in the mirror?
Too many times to count.
If you could quit your job, start afresh tomorrow and have the skills to do something completely new, what would you choose to do?
Do you mean if I wasn't playing the love interest of the gardener on Desperate Housewives? I truly love what I do. I am on a mission to change this country's eating habits and to improve people’s lives for the better. I cannot imagine ever wanting to do anything else. This is my calling. I want to empower people to help themselves and make the world a happier place.
Do you consider yourself organised? How often do you have to look for your keys?
I am Miss Organised.
Tell us the punchline to your favourite joke? ‘A carrot.“
What, if anything is too serious to joke about?
Oil and weapons.
What’s your favourite biscuit?
Seabiscuit.
What song would you hate to be played at your funeral?
‘Sugar Sugar'.
How big do you tip in restaurants? 20%—25%. Those guys and girls work their tails off and deserve every penny of it.
When did you last laugh out loud while reading a book?
It was my own book. the introduction to You Are What You Eat Cookbook where I tell the story of how I almost burned the house down making toast. It brings back a lot of memories.
Have you ever exploited your position to get something? Did you get the results you hoped for?
l would never endeavour to exploit my position to obtain something materialistic or frivolous.
Who would you like to see playing you in the film of your life?
I have not thought of anyone else. I always have assumed that I would play me. Who else could do it better?
When did you last dance?
ln Liverpool for You Are What You Eat. I took a couple of the participants salsa dancing to spice up their lives. I had a fantastic time.
What was the last unhealthy meal you had? I left unhealthy meals in the dust years ago. When did you last cry?
The tsunami.
What makes you good at what you do?
My determination to make change for the better. What’s your biggest regret?
I do not have regrets. Our greatest challenges can be our most cherished gifts.
Are you a cat or dog person?
I love all animals and they love me.
Is food the music of love? If so, why is it?
It most certainly can be. Food bursting with
nutrients can put you in the mood.
Who is the best-dressed British celebrity?
I thought I was. Did you not see me in Now magazine wuth Michelle McManus? l was wearing my purple and pink Blumarine. My mum called me up and raved about my outfit.
What's your all-time favourite sitcom? Friends. It made me laugh, cry. think and feel. Scotland gets a bit of roasting when it comes to healthy eating. Is it as bad as it's portrayed?
It used to be worse than it was portrayed. But now the tide is changing. Bad eating is a concern for all nations.
I You Are What You Eat. Channel 4, Wed 6 Apr. 8pm You Are What You Eat Cookbook is Out now. published by Michae/ Joseph; Celebrity You Are What You Eat /S broadcast on Channel 4 later If) the year.
THE OPTION OF SUICIDE
IS NEVER FAR AWAY BUT REMEMBER...
‘Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.’ Phil Donahue
Thankfully the immensely annoying US TV show host and agony uncle Phil Donahue is now about as popular as herpes in the US and has not had a show commissioned since 1996.
“Suicide is man’s way of telling God, “You can’t fire me - I quit.” Bill Maher
American comedian, actor, writer and producer Maher got shouted down for his funny comments post 9/1 1 but now he '3 back with a vengeance. Start digging him now before everyone else does (wwwbi/lmaher. com).
“The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering.“ Ben Okri
Yeah yeah, whatever Ben, but the man 's got a point. Go through that depression, brothers and sister: hug each other, care for each other. Each other is all we have.
‘Through eady morning fog I see / visions of the things to be / the pains that are withheld for me / I realise and I can see / that suicide is painless / It brings on many changes / and I can take or leave it if I please.’ Theme from M'A 'S’H by Johnny Mandel
M'A'S'H the television series is up to season six on DVD now. Do yourself a favour: go and buy or rent out the lot.
“Masturbation - it’s just shaking hands with the unemployed.’ George Carlin, US comedian, writer and actor
Don 't believe the hype: it '3 good for you. Oh, and boys and girls - it '5 OK to Cry afterwards, honest.
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