When Fauja Singh attributed his incredible fitness to a vegetarian diet: Here’s what he ate

Fauja Singh revealed that his diet comprised not only home-cooked food but also homegrown vegetables (Photo: X)

Fauja Singh, who was hailed as the ‘Turbaned Tornado’, died at the age of 114 after being hit by a vehicle in Jalandhar, Punjab, while out for a walk near his home. In an old interview with petaasia.com, the ‘world’s oldest marathoner’ revealed his diet and attributed his longevity and fitness to vegetarian foods.

Born in 1911, his journey into running started at 89, surprising many with his successful participation in marathons even after he turned 100. In the interview, he recalled his biggest wins with pride, crediting his simple vegetarian meals along with his running and jogging routine for his strength and agility.

Also read | Fauja Singh Ran Marathons at 100- Now the World Mourns the ‘Turbaned Tornado’

He said, “People call me 'the Turbaned Tornado' – I’m the oldest marathon runner in the world. Just three weeks after my 101st birthday, I ran the London Marathon in seven hours and 49 minutes. I’ve completed eight other marathons in the past 12 years, including the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, which I ran when I was 100 years old. How do I do it? Simple: firstly, I eat only vegetarian foods – I am told that vegetarians tend to live an average of six to 10 years longer than meat-eaters do. But I also walk or jog every day. Age may bring wisdom, but if you want stamina, endurance and a lifetime of good health, turn to nutritious vegetarian foods.”

Fauja Singh revealed that his diet comprised not only home-cooked food but also homegrown vegetables. He truly believed in clean eating long before the world did. In his chat, he also shared how he wanted to inspire people to rely on vegetarian food for a healthier life.

Also read | Fauja Singh hit-and-run case: NRI Amritpal Singh arrested for fatally hitting veteran marathoner with his SUV

He said, “I hope to inspire others to eat healthful, plant-based meals. I can’t dictate what others eat, but I want to share the benefits of vegetarian eating with everyone who is willing to listen. I’ve been predominantly vegetarian my whole life. In the Sikh religion, we eat to live, not live to eat. In Punjab, the green belt of India where I’m originally from, most people eat what they grow – I attribute my longevity to simple Punjabi vegetarian foods, such as chapati, dal, sabji and saag.”

The British marathoner is known to have broken several world records, participating in marathons across the globe including London, Toronto, and New York. His spirited approach to life, discipline, and focus on fitness has inspired many.