At 65, Carol Vorderman is the epitome of healthy ageing with glowing skin and boundless energy. But it was only after a series of recent health setbacks that the former Countdown presenter decided to fiercely protect her health and wellbeing.

So what measures has she put in place? As well as cutting back on work, Carol told Good Housekeeping: ‘I also make a list of what gives me joy. If you’re working six days a week, you can’t even see your mates. Healthwise, I’ve been on all sorts of drugs this last year and have had lots of muscle wastage, so I’m prioritising protein. I don’t want to be falling over when I’m 75. I have bone scans every year and full-body MRIs – I want to keep fit and healthy and getting ill has made me think that if there’s anything going wrong, I want to know now.’

But there’s one secret weapon that the presenter and Benecol ambassador relies on to boost her gut health – and that’s the humble sprout. ‘I have a bag of sprouts a day when I’m at home! I’m addicted to them.’

Love them or hate them, there’s no denying Brussels sprouts are packed with health-giving nutrients. They provide the fibre your gut loves, they’re an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function, and they also contain glucosinolates, plant compounds that research suggests have anti-inflammatory effects and may help protect against chronic illness.

‘I’ve been a fan of Brussels sprouts since before they became trendy and I’m very excited we’re going into the winter months as it means I can get more of them,’ Carol said in an interview. ‘And I have them as a snack, but they’ve got to be cooked – steamed is the best. The last year or so, I’m sure you’ve read the research about how they’re the very best vegetables for your microbiome. I didn’t know that – I just liked them – but they are very good for you. They fill you up, are great for fibre and taste delicious!’