At the impressive age of 98, Sir David Attenborough is still captivating audiences with his latest instalment of the beloved Planet Earth series. Yet, it's his remarkable vitality that has everyone buzzing.
The esteemed naturalist hopes to reach a century and attributes part of his sustained health and energy to dietary adjustments. While he hasn't gone full vegetarian, Sir David has notably cut down on red meat consumption, which he believes may be playing a part in his longevity.
In a 2017 interview, Attenborough revealed some details about his diet, commenting: "I have certainly changed my diet. Not in a great sort of dramatic way. But I don't think I've eaten red meat for months."
He also confessed: "I do eat cheese, I have to say, and I eat fish. But by and large, I've become much more vegetarian over the past few years than I thought I would ever be."
Research consistently indicates that plant-based diets can prolong life by warding off chronic illnesses and also lessen one's environmental impact—a cause close to the heart of the conservationist, reports Surrey Live.
Red meats, such as beef, lamb, mutton, pork, veal, venison, and goat, have been linked by the NHS to an increased risk of colorectal cancer when consumed in excess. Certain meats are also rich in saturated fats, which can elevate cholesterol levels and, consequently, the risk of coronary heart disease if consumed in large quantities.
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Despite his commitment to a healthy lifestyle and mental acuity, Attenborough revealed to Anderson Cooper in 2021 that the potential of cognitive decline looms large over him as he ages, with the thought of being "helpless" from conditions like Alzheimer's amongst his most profound worries. In addition, he entrusted the Telegraph with his thoughts on ageing, admitting that he is "coming to terms" with the potential for memory loss.
Yet even with these concerns, Attenborough continues to be a giant in his field, lending his legendary voice to BBC wildlife documentaries as the years progress.
Attenborough's new series in the Planet Earth series is Asia, which launched on November 3 and is available on iPlayer now.
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