Soong Mei-ling, known as Madame Chiang, was far more than the wife of Chinese leader Chiang Kai-shek. A powerful political figure, diplomat, and philanthropist, she also amazed the world by living to 106, despite being diagnosed with cancer at age 40.
Her longevity was rooted in strict daily habits: she started mornings with lemon water, ate five small meals while stopping at about 70% full, followed a fixed sleep schedule, and spent hours each day reading, drawing, and reflecting.
One food stood out in her routine—celery. Simple and inexpensive, it was a dietary staple she credited with supporting her health. Modern research backs this choice, noting celery’s antioxidants, fiber, and compounds like apigenin and luteolin, which may reduce inflammation and help protect against cancer.
Beyond health, Madame Chiang was a global icon—educated in the U.S., fluent in English, a WWII envoy to Congress, a Time magazine cover figure, and a founder of schools for war orphans. Even in her 100s, she remained mentally sharp and creatively active.
Her legacy offers a clear lesson: longevity comes from a holistic lifestyle—balanced eating, discipline, mental engagement, and self-care. And sometimes, even a humble vegetable like celery can play a role in a long, vibrant life.