Zara McDermott Prioritises Well-being with Health Scans and Opens Up About Osteoporosis Journey
Former Love Island contestant Zara McDermott, 29, has recently shared an update with her fans regarding her proactive approach to health, including undergoing a full MRI scan. While she doesn’t identify as being “massively health anxious,” Zara describes herself as being “health conscious,” a mindset that has led her to regularly monitor her well-being. This proactive stance is particularly pertinent given her previous diagnosis of osteoporosis.
During a recent YouTube vlog, Zara detailed her experience heading for the scan, explaining her reasoning. “I wouldn’t say I’m massively health anxious as such,” she clarified. “I’m not health anxious, I’m … Health conscious.” This distinction highlights a desire to stay informed and take preventative measures rather than being driven by fear.
While the primary purpose of the MRI was for peace of mind, Zara also revealed she intended to discuss a small, unusual sensation she’d noticed in her armpit with the medical professionals. “I also have had this tiny little, it’s not a lump, under like my armpit. I don’t know if it’s like a gland or something,” she shared candidly on her way to the appointment. “Anyway, I’m going to ask them to scan that and check it. I slept not that well tonight, so I am a tired girlie today.”
A Shared Commitment to Preventative Health
The decision to book in for the scans wasn’t a solo one. Zara revealed that she and a friend, Daisy (who is believed to be Louis Tomlinson’s sister), had discussed the importance of preventative health over the Christmas period. This conversation sparked a joint decision to get checked.
“We were talking about preventative health and getting on our A-game this year, and we got onto the subject of these scans,” Zara explained. “Both of us were like ‘Let’s do it together’.” The pair had seen advertisements for such scans on Instagram, and after a month-long wait to secure appointments, Zara expressed her anticipation for the results.
Donning a set of scrubs for the procedure, the Strictly Come Dancing star described the experience as “nice, clean, simple.” This straightforward approach to her health check-up underscores her practical outlook.
Navigating the Challenges of Osteoporosis
Zara’s health journey took a significant turn in 2023 when she was diagnosed with early signs of osteoporosis. This condition, which weakens bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures, typically develops gradually over many years. Often, it’s only identified after an injury or fall leads to a break.
The impact of this diagnosis became starkly apparent in December of that year when Zara required hospitalisation to treat a fracture in her tibia. At the time, she shared a hopeful update, stating, “The good news is that there is some small evidence of healing! Yay! However, the bone surrounding the fracture is under a lot of tension/pressure… whatever that means.”
The medical team had presented surgery as an option to address the fracture, which could involve procedures like using metal screws and plates to mend the bone. However, Zara opted for a more conservative approach. “Surgery is still an option, but I’ve opted for the most natural route, which is to try and help it heal on its own,” she explained.
During her recovery, Zara relied on crutches to support her healing body. She expressed her optimism at the time, saying she was “hoping this is the beginning of the end now.”
A Different Christmas and a Thriving Relationship
This past December presented a stark contrast to Zara’s previous Christmas, marked by illness and recovery. This year, she celebrated her birthday with a low-key holiday alongside her new partner, One Direction star Louis Tomlinson.
“The best birthday ever with you ❤️🎄✨🪵 & the final year of my 20’s !! [sic],” she captioned a photo of them together in a picturesque field. The couple, first linked in March 2025 following Zara’s split from podcaster Sam Thompson, have been going strong for nearly a year.
Zara has been vocal in her support for Louis, recently expressing immense pride in his musical achievements. “Proud is an understatement,” she stated following his number one chart position with his new album. Their relationship appears to be a source of happiness and support for both individuals as they navigate their respective careers and personal lives.
