The One Show host Alex Jones has shared her health concerns ahead of her 50th birthday next year, revealing that perimenopause has 'hit me now' and detailing the lifestyle changes she has made to ensure she remains healthy for her three young children.
Fear of Early Menopause
Jones, whose mother Mary experienced menopause at the unusually young age of 33, admitted she was anxious about facing the same condition. 'I worried about early menopause because my mum had hers at 33,' she told Woman & Home magazine. 'She didn't even blink and had no symptoms. She had me and my sister at 24 and 26, so it worked well for her in some respects.'
Given that early menopause can be hereditary, Jones acknowledged it was a concern when she wanted to start a family. 'Perimenopause has definitely hit me now and the main thing that helps me is nutrition and exercise,' she said.
Fitness and Nutrition Regimen
As part of her fitness routine, the mother of three revealed she loves walking her dog 'for miles', which she credits with helping her 'peri symptoms lessen their grip'. 'I also do Pilates because it's gentle but effective and I've started weight training,' she added. 'You can see a difference so quickly, it spurs you on.'
Jones, who has been a presenter on The One Show for 16 years, making her the programme's longest-serving host, explained that her focus on health is driven by her desire to be there for her children – Teddy, nine, Kit, seven, and Annie, four – whom she shares with husband Charlie Thomson. 'I'm really, really aware that I need to be around for them, so I started to look after myself more,' she said. 'I can't bear the thought of leaving them. That sharpens your focus - you realise what's important.'
The One Show's 20th Anniversary
Jones opened up to the magazine in the run-up to The One Show's 20th anniversary celebrations this August. Last week, she revealed the show would be taking its customary summer hiatus before returning later next month. Addressing viewers, her co-presenter Roman Kemp said: 'That's all we've got time for tonight, a big thank you to all of our guests.'
Jones continued: 'Tomorrow I'll be back with JB [Gill] for the final One Show before our summer break. We'll be joined by Alexander Armstrong and Annabel Croft, plus Gavin and Stacey stars Joanna Page and Mathew Horne.'
Recent Illness
The announcement followed Jones's short absence from the programme due to being unwell. Upon her return, co-host Angellica Bell asked if she was feeling better, prompting her response: 'I am slightly croaky, but we'll get through it.' As the show commenced, she informed her co-presenter that she had 'nearly recovered' from her illness, noting: 'Glad to be here.'
The One Show is currently on its summer break to accommodate the BBC's coverage of Wimbledon and other summer sporting events. It is due to return on July 27, reclaiming its regular 7pm weekday position on BBC One following the four-week break.
