The 99-year-old is known by generations of fans for his nature presenter role over the decades
Sir David Attenborough marked his 99th birthday back in May, putting his good health to key changes in his eating habits. The treasured broadcaster, best known for his groundbreaking wildlife documentaries, has significantly reduced his intake of red meat, although he hasn’t gone completely meat-free.
Speaking to The Sun back in 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. I do eat cheese, I have to say, and I eat fish. But by and large, I’ve become much more vegetarian over the past few years than I thought I would ever be.”
Sir David’s shift in eating comes amid mounting evidence linking excessive red meat consumption to serious health risks, which may compromise well-being and potentially increase mortality rates. A study released this year by Harvard researchers discovered a ‘significant link’ between ‘heme iron’ and type 2 diabetes development.
This specific type of iron, found in beef, lamb, liver, and certain fish varieties, is quickly absorbed by the body when consumed. Study authors professors Frank Hu and Fredrick J, reports the Express.
Stare said: “This study underscores the importance of healthy dietary choices in diabetes prevention. Reducing heme iron intake, particularly from red meat, and adopting a more plant-based diet can be effective strategies in lowering diabetes risk.”
Cutting down on red meat could help you live longer and lower your chances of an early death. The health perks are even greater if you replace red meat with healthier protein sources or plant-based alternatives.
Studies have found that consuming large amounts of red meat, particularly processed types such as bacon, hot dogs and deli meats, is associated with an increased risk of death from all causes, heart disease and cancer. The NHS has also warned against eating too much processed and red meat, warning it may raise the risk of bowel cancer.
The health service claimed: “Processed meat can also be high in salt and eating too much salt can increase your risk of high blood pressure.” Experts advise that anyone currently eating “more than 90g” of cooked red or processed meat daily should consider reducing this to 70g to make a positive difference if giving it up entirely isn’t feasible.
Red meat includes beef, lamb, mutton, pork, veal, venison and goat. Poultry such as chicken and turkey are classified as white meat.
Despite health warnings, red meat can be an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing roughly 30g of protein per 100g of meat. It’s also recognised for containing significant amounts of iron, a vital nutrient for producing red blood cells.
However, as with all foods, consuming items in moderation as part of a balanced diet is considered the healthiest approach. If you have any worries about changing your usual diet, consult a doctor.
Beyond his healthy diet, Sir David reportedly confessed to Anderson Cooper in a 2021 interview that mental deterioration is among his greatest fears. The possibility of becoming “helpless” due to illnesses like Alzheimer’s remains one of his main worries.
But he demonstrates no signs of slowing down, continuing to provide his distinctive voice to BBC nature documentaries. This month, the BBC has announced its festive schedule for Christmas 2025. Among the seasonal offerings, wildlife fans will enjoy a fresh film from Sir David Attenborough, as he focuses closer to home to discover England’s famous capital in Wild London.
