Amazing Health Fact #01

Born in 1483, Thomas Parr is said to have lived to the incredible age of 152! If true, that means he saw 10 sovereigns on the throne of England, including the entire 50-year reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

In 1635, King Charles I invited Parr to his palace and inquired as to how the old man managed to have such a long life. Parr answered that he had lived a simple life as a farmer eating mostly potatoes, fruit, and oatmeal.

Unfortunately, "Old Parr" was not accustomed to the rich foods served at the palace. That night after dining, he became very ill - and died. King Charles felt so terrible for having killed Britain's oldest citizen with royal delicacies that he commanded Parr be buried in Westminster Abbey, where his grave can still be seen today.

It appears that Parr was living proof of the connections between a stronger life and what you eat.

© 2009 Amazing Facts, used with permission.