Despite recent concern surrounding the Queen's "episodic mobility issues," the 96-year-old monarch was all smiles at the Royal Windsor Horse show as she made a surprise appearance on Friday.
READ: The Queen makes surprise outing at the Royal Windsor Horse Show
If you're wondering what the secret is behind the royal's seemingly endless supply of energy and her radiant skin, the answer is sweeter than you might think. The Queen "is absolutely a chocoholic" according to former royal chef Darren McGrady. From delighting in her favourite chocolate truffles to tucking into afternoon tea every day, the monarch is no stranger to indulgence.
WATCH: The Queen's daily diet revealed
HELLO! spoke with a former royal nutritionist to analyse the Queen's daily diet - and you'll be surprised to learn that her hack for staying youthful is sweeter than you might think.
SEE: The Queen's favourite chocolates make for the perfect luxury gift
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe Queen has an extremely sweet tooth
"When our skin ages, it can turn grey or develop dark spots," explains Jennifer. "The reason behind that is because of free radical damage, which can affect the healthy cells in our body. So, to stay glowing and healthy, you need a ton of things like berries, organic coffee, or really high percentage cacao dark chocolate," which are a rich source of antioxidants and minerals.
Yes, you read that right. Chocolate is so antioxidant-rich, that research suggests it may even help lower the risk of heart disease, reduce inflammation and insulin resistance, and improve brain function.
MORE: The Queen's VERY unusual dessert habits – you won't believe how she eats fruit!
MORE: The Queen's towering Platinum Jubilee cake needs to be seen to be believed
Former royal chef Darren previously revealed that Her Majesty favours truffles by Bond Street chocolatiers Charbonnel et Walker, long known for its connection to the royal family. He took to Twitter to share a photo of the company's Pink Champagne Truffles, writing: "Wondering what fancy chocolates to buy? Here are The Queen's favourites!"
Charbonnel Et Walker Pink Champagne Truffles, £8 / $11.06, Amazon
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Jennifer also suggests the Queen's love of red meat and fish could also be key factors in her age-defying diet. "Protein is so key for nutrition," she explained. "Good quality protein has a ton of B vitamins and iron, which are really important for energy."
On the Queen's favourite lemon Dover sole lunch dish, Jennifer said: "There are wonderful omega threes in fish which are great for the elasticity of the skin and are so important for energy."
RELATED: The Queen's daily diet revealed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Well, the proof is in the pudding. If eating chocolate is good enough for the Queen, it's good enough for us!
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