The former Spice Girls star - who has daughters Phoenix, 12, and Angel, four, from previous relationships - is eight months pregnant with her and husband Stephen Belafonte`s first child together and she admits she has been craving food "at all hours", leading to her piling on 64lbs.

She said: "I`m eating for England and I am loving it.

"Usually I`m very disciplined with my diet but this time I`ve been listening to my body - and it has wanted food at all hours."

Despite her huge weight gain, Mel isn`t worried about slimming down again after she gives birth.

She added in an interview with OK! Extra magazine: "Last year I was super fit and super healthy. And I will be again after this baby, because I have an active lifestyle."

Phoenix was born shortly before Mel`s marriage to her father, dancer Jimmy Gulzar, ended, while Angel was conceived during her relationship with Eddie Murphy, who initially denied being the youngster`s father.

This time, Mel says having a "supportive" partner has made a huge difference to her pregnancy.

She added: "It`s been lovely to have a pregnancy with a loving, caring partner and not be all alone as a single parent moaning to myself.

"It`s nice to have someone who`s really supportive."
sections: Celebrities