I'm world's oldest practicing doctor at 102... here's why people were slim and healthy back in my day

Daily Mail​

26-06-2025

The world's oldest doctor has revealed his slimming secrets from the past that he believes explains why Americans were so slim back in the day.
Until 2022, Howard Tucker, 102, was still practicing as a neurologist in Ohio until the hospital closed down — and now, as he approaches his 103rd birthday, he's still sending out job applications.
So, what's his secret?
Dr Tucker still largely relies on home-cooked meals — and his portions are much smaller than those in the modern diet.
He also doesn't follow trendy diets and doesn't shy away from carbohydrates or red meat.
His breakfast is typically a piece of toast and some fruit, and dinner is usually a piece of steak, chicken or fish with vegetables or a salad.
He normally skips lunch, often saying he is too busy, and instead only eats when he's hungry — which he says is a key difference in today's world.
Speaking to the National Geographic, the centenarian said: 'While I don't believe one diet fits all, it's clear that incorporating more whole, healthy foods as opposed to processed, fried or sugary treats can help prevent medical issues in the long run.
'I've seen countless food trends come and go throughout my lifetime. There will always be a new study highlighting the benefits or risks of eating just about anything.'
America's waistline has been ballooning for decades.
In 2024, some 43 percent of Americans were considered obese, compared to just 13 percent in the 1960s, when Dr Tucker first graduated med school.
Data also suggests that in the late 1970s, Americans got about six percent of their calories from fast food. Today, that has nearly doubled to 11 percent.
And research shows not only are Americans eating more, but the size and calorie content of store bought and fast food has surged.
Between 1986 and 2016, studies suggest that the average burger has gained 39 grams in weight and contains 90 more calories. It also now has 41.6 percent of the daily salt allowance, compared to 27.8 percent initially.
For fast food desserts, the average one now weighs an extra 71 grams and contains 186 more calories than it did four decades ago.
Dr Tucker, who is from Ohio, suggested in his interview that one of the ways to counteract this is to eat meals you cooked yourself.
The grandfather-of-10, does allow himself the occasional treat — saying he is partial to ice cream and donuts.
But his treat drawer also includes, perhaps uniquely, pickles that he likes to make himself.
Dr Tucker indulges in the occasional martini too, having not being scared off by the recent studies suggesting alcohol may raise someone's risk of cancer.
But the neurologist is eager to stress that, like so much in life, 'moderation' is key.
'To me, moderation seems to be correct,' he said.
'People often suggest that eating X or strictly following Y routine will help you live longer.'
'I don't believe in extremes or fads. In fact, I think going to extremes can be more harmful than helpful. Certainly, genetics and luck play an enormous role. Beyond that, I believe the key is everything in moderation.'
Dr Tucker is also no stranger to exercise, even a month before his 103rd birthday, saying he still uses a treadmill in his home gym — although at a much slower pace.
He also tries to jog when he can and walks a lot, saying this 'strengthens your heart and stimulates your brain'.
It hasn't all been plain sailing with his health, though.
He injured his neck in a skiing accident at the age of 80 years, he said, which led his family to ban him from the sport.
Dr Tucker also encourages people to continually seek knowledge and connection, saying this provides vital stimulation that keeps the brain active.
'When people ask me about longevity, as a real punkster, I would say: wine, women and song,' he says.
Like his father, Dr Tucker has made sure to try and have friends at least a few decades younger than himself, saying this helps to stimulate him to think better.
But it's not all about pleasure and socializing, he believes in strengthening the brain through learning.
Dr Tucker completed a law degree at age 67 years in 1989, and still regularly reads neurology journals to stimulate his brain.
He is still chasing new skills even now, having signed up for a computer course most recently.
Dr Tucker also warns that people should never retire, blasting this as the 'enemy of longevity' because it reduces someone's decision-making and social interaction — which may hasten decline.
Dr Tucker stopped working in 2022 after the hospital where he worked closed, but said he would still be there if it was open.
He has applied for new jobs, but keeps getting rejected — which he says is likely because of his age.