Jet Li Being Treated for Hyperthyroidism
Action actor Jet Li reveals that he is being treated for an overactive thyroid.
The action star who is known for his kung fu skills revealed that he is battling the illness during a talent show in China in which he appears as a judge. In a taping of the show, he appeared to have a "fuller face and heavier frame" according to a report by the Associated Press.
He even joked about his weight gain and said: "I'm fat, I don't have the time to lose it. It's a fact!"
The 50-year-old star explained that one of the reasons for his weight gain is the fact that exercise is not advised with the medication that he is currently taking. He has been diagnosed with an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism in 2010.
He also added: "I'll wait until the doctor says I can do simple exercises before slimming down."
An overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, is a condition of the thyroid gland and affects an individual's metabolism, cholesterol, muscles, bones, and heart rate. It does not have a cure but can be controlled with medication.
He bravely said that he's dealing with the illness head-on even though he's just a regular guy and not a hero. "I'm just a regular guy, I'm not Wong Fei Hung, I'm not Huo Yuan Jia (kung fu heroes he portrays on film), I'm not a hero. I'm just like you."
The Expendables 2 star also revealed that there are times when the illness has affected his work but he's determined to fight it and continue working. "I have brilliant days when I am at my best... as well as days when I question whether I can still continue working. I can be in pain, but I cannot cry, and must face it head on."