King Charles’ new dietary habits: are they really recommended?

Recently, various reports were published about the new dietary habits of the 75-year-old King Charles Philip. And naturally, every little trend or habit adopted by the royal family makes headlines around the world. The question asked is – is it really a balanced and recommended diet?Ayelet Biran, a clinical dietitian at Maccabi Health Services, explains that according to reports, King Charles avoids eating meat and fish twice a week, and does not eat lunch regularly. The logic that seems to be behind the menu is the desire to avoid eating animal foods due to ideology. Regarding skipping the midday meal, according to the king’s explanation, it is an unnecessary meal that wastes his time.

“Some of the habits described, such as reducing the consumption of red meat and preferring plant-based foods, can contribute to health, as they may reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes,” explains Byrne. However, she clarifies that regularly avoiding meals, especially in old age, may cause nutritional deficiencies such as a lack of proteins required by the body, and thus a decrease in muscle mass and exhaustion. She further explains that if the king does focus on eating fruits, biscuits and rich breads, this may actually cause an increase in his sugar levels.

About a year ago it was announced that King Charles was diagnosed with cancer, and following the diagnosis he had to start a series of chemotherapy treatments. “This fact must also be included in all the considerations when building a daily diet,” explains Byrne. “Oncology patients need a personalized diet. Sometimes it is necessary to increase the amount of protein and calories due to intensive treatment and the side effects that occur with it. Reducing meat, for example, may be beneficial, but in such a case care should be taken to combine other high-quality protein sources such as: legumes, fish, and eggs according to personal need”.

What nutritional habits are recommended to adopt at the age of 75?

Biran explains that at such an age it is important to include in the daily menu all the nutrients required for the proper functioning of the body – proteins (such as fish, chicken, eggs and legumes), fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (such as olive oil and nuts) and it is necessary to drink plenty of water provides In addition, in order to strengthen the bones, she recommends taking care to consume calcium found in dairy products or flour, for example, and to have regular meals that will help prevent an unwanted decrease in muscle mass and energy levels.

“King Charles’ diet menu contains healthy elements that are relevant to many of his age, such as reducing the consumption of meat and processed food. However, it is not recommended to implement them in full without personalization. Skipping meals and disordered eating patterns can be harmful. A healthy diet should be varied , balanced and customized to the needs of the bull,” concludes Byrne.