Iris Apfel, age 102 live longer and eat the top 5 anti AGEING FOODS and never eat these three ,Age is just a number—and few prove this better than Iris Apfel. At 101 years old, Iris continues to defy expectations with her unparalleled energy, wit, and style. With a massive Instagram following of 2.6 million, high-profile fashion collaborations, and a recently launched bold rug collection, she shows no signs of slowing down. Her remarkable journey inspires millions, raising the question: How does Iris maintain such health and vitality at nearly 102 years of age? Let’s dive into her lifestyle, particularly her diet, to uncover her secrets for longevity and energy.
The Inspiring Life of Iris Apfel
Born on August 29, 1921, in Queens, New York, Iris began her career as a copywriter for Women’s Wear Daily. However, her true breakthrough came in 1950 when she and her husband, Carl Apfel, founded Old World Weavers, a textile company inspired by the treasures they discovered during their international travels. Their work led to prestigious restoration projects for nine U.S. presidents, from Truman to Clinton.
When Iris retired in 1992 at age 71, her life only grew more exciting. In 2005, she was celebrated by an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. A documentary about her life and style debuted in 2014, and she became the oldest person ever to have a Barbie made in her likeness. From designing collections for Happy Socks and MAC Cosmetics to making appearances at the Met Gala and New York Fashion Week, Iris’s achievements are as boundless as her spirit. Her late husband, Carl, also shared her longevity, living to just shy of 101 years. Clearly, this family knows the secrets to thriving.
Iris’s Diet: The Fuel for Longevity
Iris credits much of her health and energy to a disciplined yet straightforward diet. A closer look at her daily meals is provided below AGEING FOODS:
Breakfast: Starting the Day Right
Every morning at 9 a.m., Iris enjoys a consistent breakfast of freshly squeezed orange juice, a bowl of either oats or grits, and a decaf coffee with skim milk. Simple, yes, but also packed with nutrients. Oats and grits are rich in complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy and essential B vitamins, which support brain function, red blood cell production, and overall health. The orange juice delivers a boost of vitamin C, crucial for collagen synthesis and immune function. For those seeking added fiber, eating a whole orange instead is even better.
Lunch and Dinner: Healthy and Simple
Iris believes in uncomplicated, nutritious meals. Her typical lunch or dinner features lean proteins like white fish or other meats, paired with plenty of vegetables. She avoids overly rich foods and large portions, sticking to her philosophy that less is often more.”We always get a good steak and grind it at home; I never buy ground hamburger meat,” AGEING FOODS she explains. When it comes to dessert, Iris usually opts for fresh fruit but enjoys a slice of pumpkin pie during the holidays.
Studies consistently support Iris’s approach. Diets rich in vegetables and fruits are associated with lower risks of heart disease, stroke, and chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and vital elements like niacin and vitamin B12 are all found in lean meats like fish.
The Power of Turmeric
Iris incorporates turmeric into her diet, a spice celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Its active compound, curcumin, neutralizes free radicals and promotes antioxidant production, protecting cells from damage and reducing inflammation. Adding turmeric to meals is easy: sprinkle it on vegetables, mix it into curries, or enjoy it as golden milk.
Foods She Avoids
Iris’s longevity is also shaped by what she avoids. She stays away from raw fish and uncooked meats, a habit she adopted after witnessing a cholera outbreak in Naples 40 years ago. Junk food and sugary sodas are strictly off her menu. These foods, often high in sugar and empty calories, can lead to health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and coronary heart disease. Instead, Iris focuses on whole, nutrient-dense foods that nourish her body.
Alcohol in Moderation
Although Iris enjoys an occasional drink, she’s not a heavy drinker. Research shows that moderate alcohol consumption may reduce the risk of heart disease, particularly in older women. However, moderation is key, as excessive drinking can have serious health consequences.
Iris’s Lifestyle: Staying Active and Engaged
Surprisingly, Iris doesn’t follow a regular exercise routine. However, she stays incredibly active through her work and daily life.Whether she’s designing, traveling, or attending events, she keeps her mind and body busy. This engagement with life is perhaps her greatest secret to staying energized.
Notably, Iris quit smoking decades ago, despite once being a four-pack-a-day smoker. Giving up this habit undoubtedly contributed to her health and longevity.
Lessons from Iris Apfel’s Longevity
Iris’s lifestyle highlights the importance of simplicity and balance. She’s proof that sticking to nutritious meals, avoiding harmful habits, and staying mentally engaged can lead to a long, fulfilling life. Her approach—focusing on whole foods, moderation, and purpose-driven activity—offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to live healthily and vibrantly at any age.
So, let Iris Apfel be your guide: embrace a diet that nourishes your body, avoid unnecessary indulgences, and, most importantly, find joy in the work and passions that keep you going.