Food for thought: Paula Mee

Dietician Paula Mee recently presented results of a survey which found that four out of 10 Irish adults endure digestive discomfort more than once a week.

According to the Danone-conducted survey, more than 70% of people believe they are emotionally affected by digestive discomfort, causing them to be in a bad mood, self-conscious and not comfortable in their own skin.

Paula credits her mother for her own interest in health-promoting foods. “She used to talk animatedly about the food she thought was good. In her collection of magazines, she’d have had nutrition and health magazines — they’d have been few and far between then. She told us about the importance of fruit, vegetables and vitamin C.

She’d keep boxes of apples, bananas and oranges in the garage.”

Paula, 49, was one of 11 children and is herself a mum of one.

“I would have loved another child but I was blessed with one,” she says.

¦ For more on digestive health, visit www.loveyourtummy.org.

What shape are you in?

I feel good about myself. I continually come across amazing women who are just not happy with themselves or their bodies, so I decided some time ago to accept myself the way I am – and that I am ‘enough’. So many of us are conditioned to see ourselves only through the weight or shape lens – not thin enough, not tall enough, stomach not flat enough. Yet our shape is only one small part of who we are.

Do you have any health concerns?

Nothing that concerns me really. My dad had cancer nearly 30 years ago and is still full of life. I can’t fight the genes, but I’m aware of them. I watch my diet, exercise and sleep patterns. I believe in the power of a few good belly laughs, as well as positivity in my overall attitude to health.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

My health is influenced more by food patterns than by my individual habits. I love my breakfast. I try to include fish or seafood twice a week, fruit and veg five times a day and three low-fat dairy servings. I also eat some plant proteins every day and a little lean meat each week.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

A good cheeseboard, grapes, figs and apples and a really good red wine. My favourite cheese is creamy Cambozola. The name is a portmanteau of Camembert and Gorgonzola – that gives an idea of the flavour. Divine.

What would keep you awake at night?

Mothering issues, deadlines for project work, the usual stuff. I’ve been practicing meditation in the evening and it helps enormously.

How do you relax?

Casual gear, walking somewhere beautiful and breathing. Curling up on my comfy couch while watching a movie is good for me too – or if it’s stress related, perhaps a short run.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Older salt and pepper men, who’ve lived big lives. No partners – well it’s my dream! Actors Gabriel Byrne, Sean Connery, James Brolin, David Norris and Graham Norton.

What’s your favourite smell?

My sister Dervie’s yogi tea…cinnamon, cloves, and every other spice under the sun.

What would you change about your appearance?

I’d love if wigs were fashionable. I wouldn’t have to get my hair in some sort of style – just have lots of fun picking my colour and hey presto – fantastic locks in a second.

When did you last cry?

Last week and it’s personal. Sometimes at the bottom of the well, a really deep cry is just what I need.

What trait do you least like in others?

Dishonesty.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

Fear.

Do you pray?

No, I used to beg sometimes when I was desperate. That’s not praying and now I meditate and sit with it, whatever it is.

What would cheer up your day?

My son singing and playing guitar. Anyone with a contagious laugh is good too.