Ancient Greek and Roman Secrets to Longevity Revealed Through Diet and Routine
Just as in the contemporary world, inhabitants of ancient civilizations were deeply fascinated by the pursuit of a long and healthy life. Greeks and Romans were captivated by extraordinary tales of distant populations reportedly living well beyond a century. The Greek essayist Lucian, who lived around 120 to 180 CE, recorded such accounts in his writings.
Indeed, there are even whole nations that are very long-lived, like the Seres [Chinese], who are said to live 300 years: some attribute their old age to the climate, others to the soil and still others to their diet, for they say that this entire nation drinks nothing but water. The people of Athos are also said to live 130 years, and it is reported that the Chaldeans live more than 100, using barley bread to preserve the sharpness of their eyesight.
Regardless of the veracity of these stories, many ancient Greeks and Romans actively sought methods to achieve extended lifespans. This is how they believed it could be accomplished.
An Ancient Doctor's Perspective on Longevity
Ancient medical practitioners showed keen interest in the daily habits of individuals who enjoyed long lives, analyzing how these routines might contribute to their health. The renowned Greek physician Galen, active from 129 to 216 CE, provides detailed observations of two elderly acquaintances in Rome.
First, Galen discusses a grammarian named Telephus, who lived to nearly 100 years old. According to Galen, Telephus maintained a strict dietary regimen, eating only three times daily. His meals were notably simple.
Gruel boiled in water mixed with raw honey of the best quality, and this alone was enough for him at the first meal. He also dined at the seventh hour or a little sooner, taking vegetables first and next tasting fish or birds. In the evening, he used to eat only bread, moistened in wine that had been mixed.
Galen also notes that Telephus adhered to bathing habits that might appear unusual by modern standards. Telephus preferred daily massages with olive oil and bathed infrequently.
He was in the habit of bathing twice a month in winter and four times a month in summer. In the seasons between these, he bathed three times a month. On the days he didn't bathe, he was anointed around the third hour with a brief massage.
Second, Galen describes an elderly doctor named Antiochus, who lived into his 80s. Antiochus also followed a straightforward diet. In the morning, he typically consumed toasted bread with honey. For lunch, he ate fish, specifically fish from around the rocks and those from the deep sea. Dinner consisted of either gruel with oxymel [a mix of vinegar and honey] or a bird with a simple sauce.
In addition to this dietary simplicity, Antiochus engaged in daily morning walks. He also enjoyed being transported around the city in a chariot or carried by slaves in a chair. Galen emphasized that Antiochus performed the exercises suitable for an old man.
There is one thing you should do for old people in the early morning as an exercise: after massage with oil, next get them to walk about and carry out passive exercises without becoming fatigued, taking into account the capacity of the old person.
Common Factors in Ancient Longevity Practices
Both Telephus and Antiochus maintained diets centered on meats, bread, grains, and honey. Galen concluded that Antiochus's routine likely played a significant role in preserving his health into advanced age.
Looking after himself in old age in this way, Antiochus continued on until the very end, unimpaired in his senses and sound in all his limbs.
Galen highlights several shared characteristics between the two men. They ate only a few times each day, consumed wild meats, whole grains, bread, and honey, and remained physically active daily.
Modern Applications of Ancient Wisdom
Not everyone can expect to live to 100 or beyond, a reality well understood by the Greeks and Romans. However, Lucian offers consolation in his essay On Octogenarians.
On every soil and in every climate people who observe the proper exercise and the diet most suitable for health have been long-lived.
Lucian advised that emulating the lifestyles of those who have achieved long and healthy lives is key to similar success. Therefore, if one resided in Rome during the 2nd century CE, figures like Telephus and Antiochus, with their simple diets and consistent activity, would serve as exemplary role models.
The insights from ancient Greek and Roman practices underscore timeless principles of moderation, dietary simplicity, and regular physical engagement, offering historical perspectives on the enduring quest for longevity.
