This one silent habit is more dangerous than alcohol or smoking, says 102-year-old doctor
purpose in life
, argues a
centenarian doctor
. American physician
Howard Tucker
, who made it to the Guinness World Records as the oldest living physician in the world, recently shared one of his secrets to a long life. In an interview with
TODAY
magazine, the 102-year-old doctor said, 'Retirement is the enemy of
longevity
.'
According to Tucker, the key to a long, fulfilling life lies not in any pill, but in living with intent. He strongly asserts that the moment people abandon their sense of purpose, particularly after retirement, they begin to deteriorate both mentally and physically. Simply put, a passive life is a fast track to decline.
Rather than stepping away from life's engagements, Tucker advocates for remaining intellectually and emotionally active. Hobbies, voluntary work, or even light responsibilities can offer stimulation to the brain. Continual learning and curiosity, in his view, are essential mental exercises that help preserve cognitive clarity. Each day must offer the mind something new to wrestle with—be it knowledge, creativity, or connection.
No Room for Stagnation
Dr. Tucker practiced medicine until the age of 100, halting only because the hospital he was affiliated with closed down in 2022. If it had remained open, he says he would have continued treating patients without hesitation. This sheer commitment exemplifies his core belief: consistent engagement with meaningful work fuels life itself. For Tucker, waking up each day to contribute to society was more than a duty—it was his lifeblood.
Love, Loyalty, and Lifelong Joys
Beyond professional pursuits, Tucker draws strength from deeply rooted relationships and personal passions. He's been married for over seven decades and is the proud patriarch of a large family that includes four children and ten grandchildren. This strong familial network, paired with his unwavering devotion to his hometown sports teams, gives him constant emotional grounding and joy. Research has repeatedly shown that individuals with rich
emotional connections
and an optimistic perspective on life often enjoy longer and healthier lifespans.
Never Too Late to Learn
Tucker is not just a doctor but also a legal scholar. At the age of 67, he pursued and earned a law degree—proving that age is never a barrier to academic or personal growth. When asked about mortality, he reflects with realism, saying that the inevitability of death only enhances the value of life. For him, acknowledging the end motivates one to embrace the present with vigor.
Movement as Medicine
Another pillar of Tucker's philosophy is
physical activity
. He emphasizes the importance of daily movement, noting that even a modest 15-minute walk can significantly lower the chances of early death. His own routine includes walking three miles a day on his treadmill and snowshoeing in winter, demonstrating that movement should be a lifelong habit, not a fleeting phase.
Mindful Eating, Simple Living
His diet is built on balance and moderation. He begins his mornings with seasonal fruits or cereal paired with low-fat milk and prefers tea over coffee. Lunch is often skipped to maintain mental clarity, and dinners usually consist of fish, a variety of vegetables—especially broccoli—and an occasional serving of meat. His eating habits reflect his broader approach to life: clean, consistent, and conscious.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Are chickpeas bad for you? 5 potential side effects
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have become a popular health food thanks to their rich nutrient content, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a staple ingredient in many cuisines worldwide and are praised for their role in supporting heart health, digestion, and weight management. However, despite their many benefits, chickpeas are not without potential drawbacks. For some individuals, chickpeas can cause adverse effects ranging from digestive discomfort to allergic reactions. Understanding why chickpeas might be bad for some people is important to avoid unwanted health issues. This article explores the possible risks and side effects associated with chickpea consumption, helping you make informed decisions about including them in your diet. 5 risks and side effects of chickpeas you should know Allergic reactions Studies by NIH show that some individuals may experience allergic reactions to chickpeas, which can include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and skin itching. These reactions can range from mild to severe, and in rare cases, may be life-threatening. If you suspect an allergy to chickpeas, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming them. Gastrointestinal issues Chickpeas contain complex sugars, known as fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), which according to NIH 's studies can be challenging to digest. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo These sugars are fermented by bacteria in the large intestine, leading to the production of gas and causing bloating or discomfort. Individuals with digestive disorders like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may be particularly sensitive to these effects. Interaction with medications Canned chickpeas are high in potassium, which can be problematic for individuals taking certain medications, such as beta-blockers for heart disease. These medications can increase potassium levels in the blood, and consuming high-potassium foods like chickpeas may lead to hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by elevated potassium levels that can affect heart function. Uric acid accumulation Chickpeas contain purines, compounds that, when broken down, produce uric acid. According to research done by National Kidney Formation , excessive accumulation of uric acid can lead to gout, a form of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints. Kidney stone formation The oxalates present in chickpeas can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. When oxalates combine with calcium in the kidneys, they can form calcium oxalate stones. Individuals with a history of kidney stones or those prone to them should be cautious about consuming chickpeas in large quantities. While chickpeas are widely celebrated for their impressive nutritional profile and numerous health benefits, including supporting heart health, improving digestion, and aiding in weight management, they may not be suitable for everyone. Certain individuals, particularly those with allergies, sensitive digestive systems, or pre-existing medical conditions such as kidney problems or gout, might experience adverse reactions or complications from consuming chickpeas. It is important to recognize these potential risks and listen to your body's signals. Consulting with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before adding chickpeas to your diet, especially if you fall into one of these categories, can help ensure that you enjoy their benefits safely and avoid any unwanted side effects. Being informed and cautious allows you to make dietary choices that best support your overall health Also read| Raisins soaked in milk is a superfood combo for health and vitality
News18
7 hours ago
- News18
This Vegetable Makes You Cry But Its Juice Can Make Your Sugar Levels Happy!
Last Updated: Research shows onion extract can reduce blood sugar by up to 50% and lower cholesterol significantly. Its powerful medicinal properties offer a natural alternative to costly drugs The issues of diabetes and high cholesterol have become increasingly prevalent, affecting lakhs of people worldwide. Many depend on daily medication to manage these conditions, but recent studies suggest that consuming onion extract alongside prescribed medicines may help control and even improve both ailments naturally. Research has shown that onion extract can reduce blood sugar levels by up to 50%, while significantly lowering cholesterol. With powerful medicinal properties, onions could offer a natural alternative to expensive drugs. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food highlights quercetin, a flavonoid found in onions, known for its strong anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects. The sulphur compounds in onions enhance insulin activity in the body, helping regulate blood sugar levels. Regular intake of onion extract boosts metabolism, enabling faster control over sugar levels. In 2021, American research hailed onion extract as a 'panacea' for type-2 diabetes patients due to its broad therapeutic effects. Benefits Of Onion Juice Onion juice benefits the body in multiple ways: it improves liver function, enhancing glucose metabolism; stimulates the pancreas to produce insulin; reduces inflammation in blood vessels, preventing cholesterol build-up; and prevents fat accumulation while improving blood circulation. Moreover, onion extract fights free radicals that cause cellular damage, aiding in the prevention of many diseases. Health experts recommend a simple method for consuming onion to control sugar and cholesterol. Take a medium-sized onion, clean it, then grate or blend it. Strain the juice through a cotton cloth and drink it every morning on an empty stomach. For easier consumption, mix the extract with half a cup of lukewarm water and add a few drops of honey or lemon juice to improve taste. Regular intake usually shows results within 15 to 20 days. However, diabetic patients should consult their doctor before starting onion juice as it may not suit everyone. Those suffering from gas, acidity, or ulcers should avoid raw onion or onion juice. Individuals with low blood pressure or low blood sugar must seek medical advice before use. People on blood-thinning medication should also exercise caution, as onion acts as a natural blood thinner. Pregnant women are advised to avoid onion juice altogether. If you experience burning sensations, allergies, dizziness, or any unusual symptoms after consuming onion juice, consult a doctor immediately. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Mint
11 hours ago
- Mint
American doctor describes Gaza starvation horror: ‘Kids missing limbs don't scream in pain, they cry, ‘I am hungry'…'
As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denies famine in Gaza, an American doctor who volunteered there for two months, recounted harrowing scenes of starvation and suffering, saying children maimed by airstrikes no longer scream from pain but from hunger. Aqsa Durrani, who is a pediatric doctor and board member of Doctors Without Borders, also claimed that she was allowed to enter Gaza with only seven pounds (approximately 3.17 kg) of food. She spent two months in Gaza with that amount of food. Speaking with Humans of New York, Aqsa Durrani said the Israeli military had rules about how much food can be taken inside the territory. Her testimony comes as Israel continues to deny humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territory, asserting the war is only on Hamas militants. The American doctor's testimony on Gaza starvation said otherwise. 'When I entered Gaza the Israeli military had a rule: I was only allowed to bring in seven pounds of food. As I was weighing out protein bars, trying to get under the limit, I said to my husband: 'How sinister is this?' Why would there even be a limit on food? I've worked in many places with extreme hunger, but what's so jarring in this context is how cruel it is, how deliberate." From the hospital, Aqsa Durrani described treating victims of Israeli airstrikes alongside fellow doctors who were themselves 'hungry and exhausted.' 'I was in Gaza for two months; there's no way to describe the horror of what's happening. And I say this as a pediatric ICU doctor who sees children die as part of my work. Among our own staff we have doctors and nurses who are trying to treat patients while hungry, exhausted. They're living in tents. Some of them have lost fifteen, twenty members of their families,' she said. The American doctor said children with missing limbs and third-degree burns didn't scream from pain, but from hunger, crying, 'I'm hungry!' "In the hospital there are kids maimed by airstrikes: missing arms, missing legs, third degree burns. Often there's not enough pain medication. But the children are not screaming about the pain, they're screaming: 'I'm hungry! I'm hungry!' 'I remember when our bus pulled out of the buffer zone. Out the window on one side I could see Rafah, which was nothing but rubble. On the other side was lush, green Israel.' Also Read | Gaza children face battle for survival: 10 disturbing photos of horrific hunger crisis and misery 'When we exited the gate, the first thing I saw was a group of Israeli soldiers, sitting at a table, eating lunch. I've never felt so nauseous seeing a table full of food,' Aqsa Durrani said. In a podcast, the American doctor recalled the anguish of telling crying, desperate mothers that she had no food for their starving children — even though supplies were just miles away. 'But it's not because we don't have it. It's because it's being deliberately blocked from us,' she said.
