Dr Christian Jessen
What made you decide to become a doctor?
I actually wanted to be a theatre director, not a doctor. But I was academic, good at sciences and passing exams so my school suggested that this might be a better career for me. I tried it, and loved it.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I suppose it must be the fact that 4 million people tune in to watch what I have to say about health each week. That's far more people than any doctor would ever see in their working lifetime. It's a huge honour and a huge responsibility.
Do you have any exciting projects coming up?
Lots more filming and I'm also doing a book to come out in time for Christmas this year. It's a book of all the weird and wonderful things that you always wanted to ask about your health and body, but wouldn't ever ask your GP.
As a doctor, do you agree with the research claims that berries are great for your health?
More and more research keeps finding new health benefitting properties of the various compounds found in high concentration in berries. They are a great natural source of antioxidants and phytonutrients.
How do berries compare to other fruit in terms of health benefits?
Berries are a highly concentrated source of vital vitamins and nutrients, often containing more per unit of fruit than other sources.
How do you suggest people eat berries/incorporate them into their diets?
No rules, as long as they eat them! Eat raw, or in smoothies, or add them to cereal in the morning.
What are your recommendations for a healthy lifestyle?
All things in moderation, as my grandfather used to say. And avoid anything faddy or overly complicated. Looking after your health is easy - you shouldn't need a PhD to do it. A sensible balanced diet and some daily exercise works wonders. Complicated supplements, fad diets and too-good-to-be-true alternative therapies won't.
What is your favourite berry?
Raspberry
What is your favourite way to eat berries?
As they do them in the Ivy - with a white chocolate sauce poured on top!
