1 Vegetable May Help Lower the Risk of 6 Types of Can.cer, According to a Famous Chinese Centenarian

A simple vegetable and three affordable drinks were part of a longevity routine.

Ms. Song Meiling, one of the most influential women in modern Chinese history, lived to the remarkable age of 106. According to widely circulated accounts, she was diagnosed with breast cancer at around the age of 40 but continued to enjoy a long and active life. While no single food can prevent or cure cancer, her daily eating habits have attracted attention for decades because they emphasized nutritious vegetables and healthy beverages.

Among the foods she reportedly valued most was celery, a common vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and plant compounds. Researchers have found that celery contains flavonoids and polyacetylenes—natural substances that may help reduce oxidative stress and support the body's normal defense mechanisms. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest these compounds may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, although more human research is needed before drawing firm conclusions.

Several studies have investigated celery's potential role in supporting overall health. Scientists have explored its possible association with lowering the risk of several cancers, including breast, lung, colon, rectal, pancreatic cancer, and leukemia. However, experts emphasize that celery alone cannot prevent cancer. A healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine medical screenings remain the most effective ways to reduce cancer risk.

Besides its potential health benefits, celery offers several nutritional advantages. It contains iron, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants that help support normal blood circulation and overall wellness. Because it is high in fiber and low in calories, celery can also promote digestive health and help people feel full longer.

Many people also appreciate celery for its high water content, which may contribute to hydration. Traditional health practices have long associated celery with supporting liver function, reducing bloating, and maintaining healthy skin. Although some of these claims require additional scientific evidence, nutrition experts generally agree that including more vegetables like celery in a balanced diet is beneficial.

According to stories shared about Song Meiling's lifestyle, she paired her healthy diet with three inexpensive drinks that she consumed regularly throughout her life.

The first was filtered water. She reportedly drank plenty of water after waking up each morning. Staying well hydrated helps regulate body temperature, supports digestion, and assists the kidneys in removing waste products. Drinking water before meals may also help some people manage appetite and improve digestion.

The second beverage was green tea. Rich in polyphenols—especially catechins—green tea has been widely studied for its antioxidant properties. Research suggests that regular green tea consumption may help protect cells from oxidative damage and support heart and brain health. While some studies indicate a possible link between green tea and a reduced risk of certain cancers, scientists caution that the evidence is not strong enough to recommend it as a cancer-prevention treatment.

The third drink was lemon water. She was said to have started drinking lemon juice after her breast cancer diagnosis and continued the habit for decades. Lemon water provides vitamin C and can contribute to daily hydration. Many people enjoy it as a refreshing morning beverage that supports a healthy lifestyle, although it should not be viewed as a medical therapy.

Experts agree that there is no miracle food or drink capable of preventing cancer on its own. Nevertheless, the dietary habits associated with Song Meiling highlight timeless health principles: eating plenty of vegetables, drinking enough water, choosing antioxidant-rich beverages in moderation, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Her remarkable longevity was likely influenced by many factors—including genetics, medical care, lifestyle, and nutrition—rather than any single ingredient. Still, her story continues to inspire people to make healthier everyday choices that may contribute to long-term well-being.