Jenny McCarthy is currently recovering after battling a severe and persistent infection that required nine oral surgeries this year. The 53-year-old Masked Singer judge revealed her health ordeal in a recent interview.
McCarthy’s condition began with a failed ceramic dental implant. This led to a series of complications, including the loss of several teeth.
She recounted that implants came out, and dental professionals eventually had to excavate her jawbone. They discovered a deep bone infection requiring extensive treatment.
McCarthy has been on antibiotics for a year and, for much of that time, could only consume soft foods due to the infection and stitches. She stated that the problem repeatedly resurfaced.
Each time the infection seemed to heal, it returned with immense pain and a swollen jaw. During these flare-ups, growths also appeared on her eyeballs.
McCarthy humorously noted that people "should feel a little bit sorry for me!" She can now chew again but remains cautious given the long-standing nature of the issue.
The television personality shared her annual holiday card with husband Donnie Wahlberg while providing an update on her health. The photo showed her in a red bikini, displaying a slender figure.
McCarthy admitted her health condition caused weight loss because she could not eat certain foods. She underwent two additional mouth surgeries even after that photo was taken, calling it a "pretty rough run."
Earlier this year, McCarthy disclosed that she suffers from Hashimoto’s disease, a chronic autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid gland, and leaky gut syndrome. She attempted a vegan diet to manage these illnesses.
McCarthy discussed her experience on a March episode of the "Heal Squad" podcast. She stated, "I tried veganism and almost died."
She became very ill, experiencing exhaustion and fatigue. McCarthy explained that she could not sustain a plant-based diet due to celiac disease, which prevents her from properly digesting gluten, alongside dairy issues and a soy allergy.
She reflected that a vegan diet works for some people, but not for everyone. McCarthy advised following one’s intuition and listening to what the body indicates.
After consulting her doctor, McCarthy ultimately adopted a "total carnivore" diet. Despite initial hesitation, she found it beneficial.
"It’s been amazing for me — and I underline, for me —" she emphasized regarding the diet change.