Ms. Meiling, born in 1897 in Shanghai and passing away in 2003 in the United States at the remarkable age of 106, was an extraordinary witness to modern and contemporary Chinese history. Despite being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 40, she managed to live for more than six decades after her diagnosis. Her longevity and radiant health were attributed to her deep understanding of nutrition, holistic health, and scientific principles of well-being. Her dedication to maintaining a disciplined lifestyle and her carefully curated diet played a crucial role in her long and fulfilling life.

Before her passing, Ms. Meiling often emphasized the importance of diet in determining a person’s overall health. She firmly believed that while life and death are ultimately dictated by nature, the condition of one’s body is largely influenced by the foods consumed. She frequently shared her insights on dietary habits that promote healing, vitality, and longevity. Her personal approach to nutrition revolved around selecting foods that not only nourished the body but also actively fought against diseases, including cancer.

A key element of Ms. Meiling’s diet was her consumption of vegetables with potent anti-cancer properties. Among them, celery stood out as one of her most cherished choices. She often spoke about the powerful role that celery played in disease prevention, highlighting its rich flavonoid content. Flavonoids are bioactive compounds known for their ability to neutralize free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress and minimizing cellular damage. The polyacetylenes found in celery further contributed to its effectiveness in strengthening the immune system, inhibiting the proliferation of mutated cells, and reducing the risk of tumor formation. Scientific research has supported these claims, identifying celery as a valuable dietary addition for combatting six of the most common types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, rectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and leukemia. Beyond its cancer-fighting capabilities, celery provided numerous other health benefits, which Ms. Meiling recognized and incorporated into her routine.

Celery’s high iron content played a vital role in nourishing the blood, particularly benefiting women who experience iron loss during menstruation. By consuming celery regularly, she ensured that her blood circulation remained strong, which contributed to bright, healthy eyes, glossy black hair, and smooth, youthful skin. She also valued celery’s cooling and detoxifying effects, as it was known to support liver health and assist in the body’s natural detoxification processes. For individuals prone to mouth sores, discomfort, or excessive internal heat, celery served as a natural remedy to clear toxins and restore balance. Additionally, the psoralen content in celery offered protection against psoriasis, while its high fiber content made it beneficial for digestive health. Ms. Meiling recognized that consuming fiber-rich foods like celery facilitated the digestion and excretion process, allowing the body to eliminate toxins more efficiently. The diuretic properties of celery further aided in flushing out waste through urine, thereby reducing stomach pressure and promoting gut health.

In addition to her strategic vegetable choices, Ms. Meiling also followed a strict hydration routine, which contributed significantly to her well-being. She prioritized drinking three specific types of water daily, each serving a unique purpose in maintaining her vitality.

The first type was filtered water, which she consumed religiously, particularly in the morning. Upon waking up, she made it a habit to drink ample amounts of filtered water to facilitate the elimination of accumulated toxins from her body. This practice, combined with regular physical activity such as walking, allowed her body to cleanse itself naturally through urine and sweat. This daily detoxification not only supported internal organ health but also resulted in radiant, glowing skin. Additionally, drinking water before meals helped enhance her metabolism, making digestion smoother and reducing the likelihood of fat accumulation.

The second type of beverage that played a crucial role in her daily routine was green tea. Known for its potent antioxidant properties, green tea became an integral part of Ms. Meiling’s lifestyle. She often had her staff prepare a fresh supply of green tea for her to drink throughout the day. The benefits of green tea extended far beyond simple hydration—it was an essential component of her cancer prevention strategy. The polyphenols present in green tea were scientifically proven to have strong antioxidant and anti-aging effects, helping to combat oxidative stress and protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Additionally, green tea played a significant role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease by preventing the blockage and rupture of blood vessels in the brain. Ms. Meiling credited her regular green tea consumption with keeping her mind sharp and her body resilient.

The third essential drink in her regimen was lemon juice, which she incorporated into her routine after her breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 40. She firmly believed in the healing properties of lemon and its ability to cleanse the body, purify the intestines, and maintain a healthy pH balance. She drank lemon juice daily as part of her breakfast, convinced that it contributed to her youthful appearance and overall well-being. Lemons were rich in vitamin C, which helped nourish the skin, strengthen blood vessels, and boost immunity. Additionally, lemon juice supported liver function by assisting in detoxification and digestion. Even as she aged, she maintained a remarkably youthful complexion, with minimal wrinkles and a natural rosy glow. At 104 years old, she was still widely admired for her beauty and vitality. When American doctors inquired about her longevity secrets, she openly credited her habit of drinking lemon juice as a key factor in preserving her health.

Despite being diagnosed with cancer in midlife, Ms. Meiling defied expectations and lived a full and healthy life until the age of 106. Her remarkable journey proved that a combination of mindful eating, proper hydration, and dedication to wellness could significantly impact one’s longevity. She passed away naturally, with no direct cause linked to her past cancer diagnosis. Her legacy continues to inspire those seeking to embrace a healthier lifestyle, demonstrating that the power of food and hydration can be transformative when approached with intention and consistency.