David Attenborough made drastic diet change years ago as he looks to ‘live past 100’

Sir David Attenborough is set to celebrate his 99th birthday next week and has seemingly put part of his longevity down to a diet change.

The legendary broadcaster recently released a powerful statement about 'nearing the end of his life' but fans are desperate for him to stick around a while longer yet, as he continues to churn out fascinating documentaries despite his advanced age.

Fans of the national treasure were left concerned last year when his voice appeared to have been altered for a show but the 98-year-old was quick to reassure the world that it was still him providing the iconic narration.

Attenborough clearly has no plans to retire and it seems as if a change in diet could be one of the reasons that he remains so sprightly.

He previously gave an insight into his eating habits and revealed: "I have certainly changed my diet. Not in a great sort of dramatic way. But I don't think I've eaten red meat for months.

"I do eat cheese, I have to say, and I eat fish. But by and large, I've become much more vegetarian over the past few years than I thought I would ever be."

Considering the benefits of giving up meat, and also spending so much time in the outdoors, it's perhaps no surprise that Attenborough has lived as long as he has.

Sir David Attenborough has been around for 98 years, and on our screens for 70 of those (BBC)

His red meat reduction won't just be benefitting his body but also the planet, something the environmentalist is obviously extremely passionate about.

In his upcoming documentary, Ocean with David Attenborough, the presenter spoke candidly about his own health and his hopes for the planet for when he is gone.

Attenborough said: "When I first saw the sea as a young boy, it was thought of as a vast wilderness to be tamed and mastered for the benefit of humanity. Now, as I approach the end of my life, we know the opposite is true. After living for nearly a hundred years on this planet, I now understand that the most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea.

He also voiced his deep worries about the deteriorating state of the ocean, confessing: "Today, it is in such poor health I would find it hard not to lose hope were it not for the most remarkable discovery of all."

Cutting down on red meat in your diet could also help reduce your risk of bowel cancer (Getty Stock Image/Kryssia Campos)

But, ever the optimist, the beloved star suggested that the planet can bounce back if the sea is saved.

He insisted: "If we save the sea, we save our world. After a lifetime of filming our planet, I'm sure nothing is more important."

Keep eating those veggies Sir David, we want you to live forever.

Ocean with David Attenborough releases as a cinematic event on 8 May, it will be available to stream on National Geographic, Disney+ and Hulu later this year.