A 108-year-old immunologist told how to stay healthy, live long and age with dignity

At the age of 106, allergist William Frankland, dubbed the “grandfather of allergies,” continued to amaze the medical world by conducting consultations and publishing scientific articles at such a respectable age.

William Frankland, born March 19, 1912, was a leading figure in the fields of immunology and allergy treatment. Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, his remarkable life and career were marked by groundbreaking scientific discoveries and commitment to advancing medical science.

Having trained as a physician at Oxford University, Frankland began his career in extremely difficult circumstances: as a doctor in the British Army during World War II. This experience laid the foundation for his future contributions to medicine. He spent more than three years as a prisoner of war; after the war, he returned to England and focused his attention on immunology, where he pioneered the understanding and treatment of allergic reactions and asthma.

Frankland's contribution did not go unnoticed. He was awarded numerous honours, including the prestigious OBE, reflecting his significant influence on medicine.

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Active activity

Even after reaching the age of one hundred, Frankland continued to actively participate in scientific discussions.

His commitment to research was unwavering, and he emphasized: "Scientific research is a constantly evolving field. What we know today may change tomorrow, but the pursuit of knowledge is what drives progress."

Declining mental ability over time is the aspect of aging that most people dread. But that doesn’t mean it has to be inevitable. Keeping your mind active and engaged in later life can actually help generate new brain cells and neural connections.

At 103, he said during an interview: "When you get old, there are some things you can't do. I'm too old to run and keep fit that way. But I certainly keep my brain working all the time. And I read a lot of scientific journals."

He had two sons and three daughters; 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

And although William said, “People often ask me what the secret of my longevity is, and I answer that it’s just luck, nothing more,” he actually believed that the main component of his long life was a balanced approach to life.

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How to Live Long and Stay Healthy

Frankland believed that longevity depended not only on diet but also on a holistic approach to life.

As he wisely noted, "I believe that a balanced diet and a positive outlook on life are critical to longevity. It's not just what you eat, it's how you live."

What did William Frankland eat?

Frankland's daily routine reflected his commitment to health and vitality. He ate a diet rich in whole foods—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins—while minimizing processed foods, refined sugar, and excessive salt.

His breakfasts were hearty and energizing, usually starting with oatmeal cooked in water or milk, and topped with fresh fruit such as apples or berries. This dish provided essential vitamins and energy, and Frankland believed in its role in maintaining good health and immunity. He complemented his breakfast with a cup of green tea, which he believed was good for maintaining vitality and concentration.

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For lunch, Frankland favored light but nutritious meals. His meals often included a fresh vegetable salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice, as well as a variety of greens such as spinach, broccoli, and kale. He chose lean proteins such as fish, poultry, or legumes, and paired them with whole grain bread or quinoa to ensure a balanced intake of carbohydrates and fiber.

Dinner

Dinner was equally light and promoted good sleep and recuperation. For dinner, he usually prepared vegetable stews or soups from seasonal products, sometimes adding lean meat or fish. He also included nuts and seeds, rich in healthy fats and proteins, which, in his opinion, support overall health.

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Live well and age with dignity

Beyond his scientific contributions, Frankland's ideas on aging are particularly inspiring.

He believed that “aging gracefully is about more than just physical health; it’s about remaining mentally flexible and engaged with the world around you.”

His own life was evidence of this belief, as he remained intellectually active and socially involved even in his old age.

When asked how he was able to survive so many serious trials and continue to live a full life, he responded with a short phrase: “Take everything in stride.”

William Frankland died in 2020 at the age of 108 during the pandemic.

William Frankland's longevity and vitality were a testament to his balanced approach to nutrition and lifestyle. Frankland's life and work continue to inspire those seeking to improve their well-being through thoughtful living and scientific research.

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