Queen Elizabeth has ruled the United Kingdom for 70 years with a sharp mind and retained her youthful wit. This makes her the third-longest ruling monarch in history (and she’s only a few weeks away from becoming the second). But what is her secret to her long rule? Darren McGrady, former Buckingham Palace chef and author of The Royal Chef at Home, shared the secrets of the queen’s regular royal recipes which contain anti-aging benefits. (1)
Anti-aging benefits of The Queen’s favorite foods
The sweet life: chocolate
Chef Darren explains that The Queen treats herself to chocolate biscuit cake, chocolate eclair, or a slice of chocolate perfection pie regularly. She teaches us the importance of taking time to enjoy the treats that bring you joy because happiness is part of a balanced life.
When it comes to processed types of chocolate, it's healthier to have them in moderation. Processed chocolate is high in sugar and saturated fat which may increase the risk of chronic disease. It also can break down skin elasticity, increasing the look of aging. (2)
By focusing on swapping to dark chocolate, you’ll get some pretty amazing benefits. Cocoa contains more antioxidants than most foods. (3) Antioxidants help protect cells from damage and offer anti-aging benefits.
Tea time
Queen Elizabeth loves sipping a hot cup of Earl Gray tea. This type of tea is typically made from black tea leaves and dried bergamot extract, which comes from the rind (outer skin) of citrus fruit.
Bergamot oils have been suggested to improve mood and decrease inflammation, which in excess is linked to disease. (4) Black tea leaves contain powerful plant components (polyphenols) which can protect against chronic diseases. (5) The Queen's health secret: go for black tea without added sugar or cream. Reducing your sugar intake can help reduce the risk of other health issues over time.
Game Meats vs. Farmed Meats
The Queen prefers game meats fresh from her estate. Some of the Queen’s favorites include pheasant and venison. She also loves lean grilled fish or chicken with vegetables for lunch.
Game meat tends to be leaner and lower in fat, with increased nutrition, when compared to farmed meat. It also has a dramatically lower carbon footprint. Lean meats help prevent natural muscle loss that happens with age and also help promote a healthy weight.
If you’re able, consider swapping farmed or game meats for plant-based options. Plant-based diets have been shown to decrease cancer risk, benefit gut health, and moderate weight. Balancing vegetarian foods with some lean and quality meat can be a healthy part of a well-rounded diet. (6)
Plant the seeds for a balanced diet
Queen Elizabeth prefers a simple breakfast of cereal, an egg, and some assorted fruits. For lunch and dinner, she typically pairs her protein with wilted spinach or courgettes (zucchini). She also will sometimes swap sweets for sliced fruit or strawberries for dessert.
Fresh fruits and vegetables supply fiber which helps promote digestive health and decrease the risk for heart disease. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals which help prevent age-related disease. It’s recommended to make about half of your plate fruits or vegetables for optimal health. (7)
Portions but pleasure
Queen Elizabeth is conscious when it comes to her health and watches her portions. But that’s not to say she doesn’t give herself the royal treatment and enjoy foods she likes. What works for her is to indulge in chocolate treats and a daily cheers of champagne while cutting back on processed carbohydrates for lunch and dinner. If you’re curious about trying low-carb diets, the keto diet may be a good option for you.
Ready to give yourself the royal treatment and find the best balance for you? Grab a chocolate pastry, enjoy a cup of tea, and enjoy the celebration.
All of the content and media on Lifesum is created and published for information purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Users should always consult with a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice.
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All of the content and media on Lifesum is created and published for information purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Users should always consult with a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice. If you have or think you are at risk of developing an eating disorder, do not use the Lifesum app and seek immediate medical help.
