When it comes to prolonging our life, experts suggest following a healthy, balanced diet, consuming whole grains, and indulging in nuts whilst reducing the intake of sugar-sweetened products.
There’s a serious case for eating the Mediterranean diet; US citizens are advised to focus on protein-rich foods; the World Health Organisation (WHO) advises that no level of alcohol is safe for our health, and that ultra-processed foods should be kept to a minimum.
And while many of us will choose to listen to these professionals, others are more likely to take stock in what people who’ve lived a long, fruitful life have to say on the matter.
Introducing Elizabeth Milner: woman who currently lives at Care UK's Kentford Manor in Newmarket, Suffolk.
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The Scottish centurion was born in 1921, lived through World War II, and raised her two children in Yorkshire with her husband Alfred, whom she married in 1944.
She turned 104 in December, where she was presented a special cake and enjoyed a ‘lovely afternoon tea party with plenty of bubbles’, according to an interview with Care UK.
The former Land Army member currently partakes in ‘baking, knitting, and tapestry-making’ during her spare time, and is described as a ‘much-loved resident’ of the care home.
“It was wonderful to mark this tremendous milestone with her and her family,” said Hannah Nurse, the manager of Care UK's Kentford Manor.
During the chat, Milner revealed what foods she thought helped her reach the milestone birthday.
She claimed that mixing the good with the ‘bad’ was her secret to success.
The two foods that she touted as her age-defying heroes were vegetables and chocolate.
What experts say about eating vegetables
The NHS recommends eating five 80g portions of vegetables and fruit per day, citing them as an excellent source of dietary fibre and hailing their ability to reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.
Veggies also contain folate, vitamin C, and potassium, help maintain a healthy gut, and are low in fat.
Some of the most nutrient-dense vegetables include dark, leafy greens like kale, spinach, Swiss chard, and collard greens, as well as broccoli, cucumbers, and Brussels sprouts.
Experts advise eating chocolate in moderation
When it comes time to sweet stuff, experts suggest eating a slab of dark chocolate with high cocoa content.
Studies suggest the confectionary item may help improve your health and lower the risk of heart disease.
Other possible benefits include improving brain function, protecting your skin from the sun, and lowering oxidation-prone forms of ‘bad’ cholesterol.
Healthline recommends eating dark chocolate in moderation.
While milk chocolate isn’t generally regarded as part of a healthy diet, some bars do have a relatively high calcium content, and contain mood-boosting compounds.
The British Health Foundation warned that it is high in sugar and saturated fat, and that beans, pulses, fruit and vegetables serve as a healthier alternative.
Ella Scott