Kevin McHale gets gym-buff to deal with digestion issue

Kevin McHale —INSTAGRAM

Best known for playing the wheelchair-bound, nerdy teen Artie in six seasons of the musical series “Glee,” Kevin McHale recently revealed dealing with a digestion issue. The actor went on a three-month journey that also dramatically changed his body and behavior.

“I had been working through an intestine and digestion issue that was eluding diagnosis and that really took a toll on me. I was constantly in pain,” McHale told Us Weekly.

He tried new diets, to no avail, but eventually adapted a workout plan through Ultimate Performance, a fitness studio that had him closely working with a trainer.

McHale, 30, had to record and prepare his own food, as well as go on closely monitored exercise sessions. “I was most excited and scared for the diet… I was intimidated by the prospect of having to completely relearn everything I knew about food and learn to make elaborate meals,” said the openly gay actor.

He also rated his energy, sleep and digestion daily. This resulted in a muscular, sculpted body, but he also felt changed in other ways. He admitted to feeling unhappy with his older, “skinny-fat” body, and expressed appreciation for the chance to improve it.

“When you’re investing your time and energy into yourself in this way, it changes so much of your life,” McHale said.—OLIVER PULUMBARIT