His decision to cut one food from his diet could be the secret behind his remarkable health and longevity
Legendary nature presenter Sir David Attenborough has previously said he’d love to reach his 100th birthday, which is just a few days away. The broadcasting icon credits part of his well-being and energy to a simple dietary choice that could help more people stay healthy for longer.
While not a complete vegetarian, it’s well documented that Sir David has cut out red meat consumption, a decision he suspects may be extending his life. This shift in habits isn’t new – Attenborough spoke openly about his dietary choices as far back as 2017.
He said: “I have certainly changed my diet. Not in a great sort of dramatic way. But I don’t think I’ve eaten red meat for months.” He admitted that although he continues to eat cheese and fish, he has otherwise “become much more vegetarian” than he’d ever imagined.
“There is clear science behind the benefits of adopting a more plant-based diet when it comes to overall health and longevity.” The 99-year-old has reduced his consumption of red meat, which includes things like beef, lamb, mutton, pork, veal, venison and goat.
The TV icon will mark his 100th birthday on Friday, May 8, having been born in 1926. As this remarkable milestone approaches, he has admitted during one of his most recent programmes, Ocean, that he is ‘approaching the end of his life.’
The NHS warns that eating too much processed and red meat can raise the likelihood of developing bowel (colorectal) cancer. A number of products in these categories contain high levels of saturated fat, which may cause blood cholesterol to rise when eaten in large quantities.
Elevated cholesterol heightens the risk of coronary heart disease, reports Surrey Live. Anyone considering cutting certain foods from their diet should make sure they’re still getting essential nutrients and consult their doctor beforehand.
Failing to maintain a nutritious, balanced diet may lead to health complications. Experts at Harvard Health suggest that people who want to cut down on red meat should find suitable alternatives to maintain sufficient protein intake.
Daniel Pendick, former executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch, claims that replacing just one daily portion of red meat with other options might reduce mortality risk by 7% to 19%. People could swap red meat for other protein sources such as fish, chicken, turkey, nuts, beans, low-fat dairy products and whole grains.
Despite maintaining a healthy diet and staying mentally sharp, Sir David Attenborough revealed his private worries about growing older during a 2021 interview with Anderson Cooper. He shared his anxiety about mental decline and the fear of becoming “helpless” through conditions such as Alzheimer’s.
He also told the Telegraph about his worries regarding getting older and “coming to terms” with possible memory loss. But, Sir David remains a prominent figure, lending his voice to BBC wildlife documentaries with projects airing as recently as January 2026.
What are the benefits of cutting out red meat?
Red meat is widely associated with elevated levels of saturated fat, which can raise LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. Research further suggests that reducing or eliminating red meat may lower the risk of heart disease and related deaths.
Certain studies have linked excessive red meat consumption to a heightened risk of colorectal cancer, according to the Scottish Cancer Foundation. Cutting back on red meat may also reduce the risk of other cancers.
Evidence additionally suggests that a high red meat intake is associated with an increased chance of developing type 2 diabetes. Diets that restrict or exclude meat tend to be lower in calories and fat, supporting weight loss and helping maintain a healthy weight.
A meat-free diet is typically rich in fibre from vegetables, fruits, and wholegrains, which promotes a healthy gut microbiome and can boost metabolism and general wellbeing. It is essential to consult your GP before making any decision to reduce your red meat intake.
Who is David Attenborough?
Sir David Attenborough has mesmerised millions by bringing the natural world into our living rooms and classrooms. Throughout the decades, his extraordinary career has been driven by an insatiable passion for discovery, exploration, creativity, and enlightenment.
The celebrated writer, broadcaster, and naturalist studied at Clare College, Cambridge. Following a period with an educational publishing firm, he began his broadcasting journey as a BBC trainee in 1952. Serving as controller of BBC Two, he was instrumental in introducing Europe’s first colour television transmissions.
For seven decades, he has been the legendary voice of natural history programming, showcasing the splendour of the natural world through iconic series including Life on Earth, The Private Life of Plants, and The Blue Planet. More than 40 species of flora and fauna bear his name, alongside a constellation.
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