Holding back on the finer things in life may not be the key to making it to 100-years-old, the oldest practicing doctor in the world has shown.
The “world’s oldest doctor” as certified by the Guinness Book of Records has revealed his secrets to making it to a c century - and it involves eating steak and washing down martinis.
Dr Howard Tucker, 100, is still working as a neurologist, having qualified 75 years ago.
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The medical maestro from Cleveland, Ohio in the US was exalted as the ‘Oldest Practising Doctor’ in 2021.
The centenarian and who served with the military said his key for a long and happy life, with the odd “New York strip steak” and “martini” involved, The Daily Star reported.
When Dr Tucker was born in 1922, men were only expected to live to 58, on average.
He made it through Prohibition, The Great Depression, World War II, Polio and even a global pandemic.
Beating the odds of 1 in 5,000 to make it to the hundred mark, with “good genes” and “a bit of luck” Dr Tucker has some dictums he’s followed to help him make it to such a fantastic age.
The neurologist said it’s imperative to stay in shape, and told CNBC: “Swimming, jogging, hiking and skiing well into my late-80s has kept me strong and healthy.
“I try to get in at least three miles on my treadmill at a brisk pace most days of the week.”
However, Dr Tucker said it’s important to enjoy life to the fullest and not restrict yourself too much.
He explained: “I’ll have a martini and New York strip steak occasionally, but not every day.
“The real secret to longevity is that there are no secrets. But we live daily and die once, so we must make the most of the time we have.”
Avoiding “cognitive decline” by keeping the mind active and stimulated is also a key component to life, he said.
Dr Tucker said: “I’ve been working for more than 75 years, and was even named as the world’s oldest practising doctor by the Guinness World Records.
“Many people who retire and become inactive in their day-to-day routine are at an increased risk of cognitive decline.”
He loves to spend time with his family when he is not working.
He concluded: “When I’m not working, I like spending time with my four children and 10 grandchildren, snowshoeing, and watching Cleveland sports.
The scientist has an upcoming film coming out, called What's Next? which will analyse his fascinating life.
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