Hong Kong artist Ta Hien, father of actor Ta Dinh Phong, maintained a remarkable physique and demeanor well into his 90s, a testament to his strict lifestyle and nutritional principles. Known for his role as Long Tu in "Than bai", Ta Hien's career spanned over 70 years, featuring classic works such as "Tieu Thap Nhat Lang", "Anh hung xa dieu", and the film "Doi bong Thieu Lam". His children, Ta Dinh Phong and Ta Dinh Dinh, confirmed his passing at age 90 on their personal pages on 20/7. His last film, "Time", explored the lives of the elderly, after which he made fewer public appearances.

Ta Dinh Phong (left) and his father, actor Ta Hien. Photo: Cinema Online

A cornerstone of Ta Hien's longevity was his meticulous approach to diet, particularly his habit of eating only to 70% satiety. This practice mirrors the Japanese philosophy of "Hara Hachi Bu", a concept scientifically proven to have robust health benefits. A large-scale study published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity highlighted that calculated calorie restriction reduces intracellular oxidative stress and optimizes mitochondrial function. This process slows biological aging and extends a healthy lifespan.

When hunger struck, Ta Hien opted for nuts instead of processed snacks. Research from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health confirms that the unsaturated fats, fiber, and plant protein in nuts not only help stabilize blood sugar but also significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, a critical concern for older adults.

Interestingly, Ta Hien often skipped breakfast, consuming only black coffee or orange juice to manage his appetite. This routine aligns with principles of intermittent fasting. The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) indicates that the metabolic shift from glucose to ketone during fasting enhances anti-inflammatory capabilities and promotes cellular repair. However, health professionals caution that this method requires careful personalization to avoid digestive strain, particularly for individuals with a history of stomach ulcers.

For men's health, Ta Hien maintained a diet rich in zinc from raw oysters and steak for an extended period. This classic nutritional strategy, evidenced in the Journal of Reproduction & Infertility, highlights zinc as an essential micronutrient for testosterone synthesis and maintaining sperm structure. Combined with the abundant iron and protein from beef, this regimen not only boosted physical strength but also helped prevent sarcopenia, the muscle loss common in older men. Even with green vegetables, he favored tender, young shoots to optimize nutrient absorption and minimize bloating.

Parallel to his dietary regimen, Ta Hien's consistent exercise habits over nearly seven decades were a key factor. Daily full-body stretching proved to be an excellent rehabilitative practice. According to research from the Mayo Clinic, stretching enhances blood circulation, alleviates muscle stiffness, and maintains flexible joint range of motion. The suppleness of his spine, achieved through these exercises, helped Ta Hien preserve his slender, upright posture, maintaining his demeanor despite the passage of time.

Hong Kong actor Ta Hien. Photo: HK01

Ta Hien experienced several relationships and two marriages, to actresses Chan Tran and Dich Ba Lap. He and Dich Ba Lap had two children, Ta Dinh Phong and Ta Dinh Dinh, divorcing in 1995. The actor later dated Coco, a model 49 years his junior, for 12 years before their separation in 2018.

He received the "Lifetime Achievement Award" at the 38th Hong Kong Film Awards (Kim Tuong), becoming the oldest Best Actor winner in the award's history. Beyond his career, Ta Hien was known for his meticulous appearance, his gourmand tastes, and a flamboyant romantic life. His inseparable sunglasses, which he wore to conceal his "playboy eyes" as advised by a feng shui master, became his signature for decades.

Binh Minh (According to HK01)