The handsome chef shared with his fans on Instagram that he had spent the last month or so in hospital having his ileostomy reversed.
Ben uploaded an image of himself from his hospital bed clutching onto a teddy.
'I have recently spent some time in hospital having my ileostomy reversed (I had ulcerative colitis) and I always knew that help was there if I needed someone to talk to.'
Ben had the reversal last month on December 14 and shared the news with his fans posting:
'Day 1: after my reversal surgery. The bag is gone and it feels amazing 🎈🎉 can’t wipe the smile off my 🧔🏻'
'Thanks to all my family and friends for your support and hope to be out soon.
Recovering well with the fantastic surgical and nursing staff at the PA hospital.'
Speaking to Who, Ben said: 'It was really shocking... It's a lot more common than people realise and a lot of people don't talk about it because it is a sensitive topic involving the bowel.'
Doctors first tried a blood infusion treatment, which was unsuccessful, and his ulcerated colon had to be removed. Then last May he had a colostomy bag fitted. Although it’s "very confronting," Ben acknowledges that "it isn't the worst thing in the world." In fact, it's cause for reflection. "If I'd lived in another country I could be dead," he says.