King Charles has reportedly been following an anti-inflammatory diet for years, and recent trends have sparked renewed interest in foods that reduce inflammation, promote longevity, and enhance overall wellbeing. Former royal chefs have offered glimpses into the King's dietary preferences, revealing a penchant for nutrient-rich foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties. From organic produce to omega-3-packed meals, the King's food philosophy could hold the key to healthier ageing, according to Surrey Live.
Anti-Inflammatory Superfoods King Charles Swears By
Wild Mushrooms
King Charles has a well-established fondness for wild mushrooms. Queen Camilla's son, Tom Parker-Bowles, wrote in his book Cooking and the Crown that wild mushrooms are "somewhat of an obsession" for both his mother and stepfather, and that they can become quite competitive over their finds when out foraging. Former royal chef Darren McGrady revealed that one of the King's most-loved dishes is wild mushroom risotto with organic lamb. Charles would regularly take his chefs foraging across the grounds of his royal estates to identify the finest ingredients. Darren said: "He loves wild mushrooms and would take his chefs to Balmoral to show them where the best mushrooms are. We brought them back to Buckingham Palace, and they were the most amazing porcini mushrooms." Mushrooms are rich in ergothioneine, a potent antioxidant that protects cells from damage and combats inflammation.
Oily Fish
While he does not consume fish daily, the King is said to have a fondness for salmon and mackerel, both abundantly rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are widely recognised for their anti-inflammatory properties, bolstering heart health, brain function, and joint mobility. However, this is not a staple at every meal; the monarch previously told the BBC: "For years, I haven't eaten meat and fish on two days a week, and I don't eat dairy products on one day a week."
Green Tea
A longstanding champion of organic living, King Charles reportedly favours green tea over coffee. This low-caffeine alternative is rich in polyphenols like EGCG, which have been shown to reduce inflammation, boost metabolism, and promote healthier skin. A devotee of both green tea and English breakfast tea, the King is renowned for having strict rules about how his cuppas are brewed. In 2020, Evan Samson, Hospitality Manager of Dumfries House, revealed: "The key is to use loose tea and a teapot - one teaspoon of tea leaves per teacup plus an extra one for the pot. The water must be heated to 70°C for green tea and 100°C for Earl Grey or English breakfast tea. The temperature of the water must be measured with a thermometer."
