Looks like wine and a great sense of humor are common factors amidst centenarians.
Editor's note: This article was originally published on April 10, 2020. It has since been updated.
While some can't accept the fact that aging is inevitable, some decide to treat it just as a number and play with life freely. Medical research has suggested many healthy tips on how to stay young and active, but here is an expert who has lived life fully and has a unique secret to share with the rest of us.
Florence Bearse, a former restaurant owner, turned 100 in 2017. She dedicated her life to serving others before retiring, according to NYPost. According to her, it is wine that is the secret to her long, healthy life.
“I like my wine. Don't take it away from me,” she said. "The people have taken me I think. They understand me. That I'm crazy,” she joked.
A resident of Westgate Center for Rehabilitation in Bangor, Maine, she's known for her no-nonsense attitude and sense of humor, according to News Center Maine. On her 100th birthday, the place was decorated with balloons, gifts, and a birthday cake.
Originally from Massachusetts, Florence used to run a restaurant in Lagrange. It did not take her long to take to Maine. She loves it so much she recommends people to visit it.
"Maine is beautiful. I tell everybody, ‘You want a trip? Go to Maine,’” she said.
Folks wanted to know how they could live a long life like her, and she responded with, "Don't take any baloney!”
She's not the only centenarian who attributed their long life rather cheeky to a drink. Britain's oldest living person, Grace Jones, 112, credits it to her sunny demeanor and a "tot of whiskey" every night. "Whisky is very good for you," she said. "I started having a nightly tot of it when I turned 50, so I've been having it every night for the last 60 years and I certainly have no intention of stopping now. My doctor said 'Keep up with the whiskey Grace, it's good for your heart,'" she added.
The previous oldest living person of Britain, Olive Evelyn Boar, from Felixstowe, Suffolk, who lived till 113, credited her long life to "hard work, knowing lovely people and good food."
There are many studies that highlight the health benefits of wine. According to Healthy Living, merlot wine has several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. According to HealthLine, wine is not just rich in antioxidants, but it may also help with fight inflammation and may have some benefits for mental health. The key is to drink in moderation, follow a healthy diet, and exercise the right amount every day. Another common factor in these centenarians' lives? A positive attitude with much laughter.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a report published in 2017. There have been no updates since then.
References:
https://nypost.com/2017/07/10/100-year-old-woman-says-wine-is-the-secret-to-a-long-life/
https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-merlot-wine-4928.html
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-wine#benefits
Cover Image Source: Twitter
