Jeanne Louise Calment, a French supercentenarian, holds the record as the oldest verified person in history, living to 122 years and 164 days (1875–1997). Her extraordinary longevity has fascinated researchers and the public alike, especially given her unconventional lifestyle choices.
Lifestyle and Longevity
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Diet: Jeanne attributed her long life partly to her diet, which included olive oil (used both in cooking and as a skin moisturizer), port wine, and chocolate. She reportedly consumed up to a kilogram of chocolate per week.
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Habits: Despite common health advice, Jeanne smoked cigarettes until the age of 117 and drank wine daily. She also indulged in sweets and red meat regularly.
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Low Stress: Jeanne lived a wealthy, low-stress life, never working a full-time job. She enjoyed active hobbies like biking, swimming, and playing the piano.
Health Observations
Jeanne’s lifestyle defied conventional wisdom about longevity. Her indulgence in smoking, drinking, and sugary foods contrasts with typical recommendations for healthy aging. However, she credited olive oil and her enjoyment of life as key factors in her remarkable lifespan.
Her case demonstrates that longevity can be influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and possibly an optimistic outlook on life.
