Donald Gorske of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, might just be the most loyal fan of McDonald’s Big Mac. Since his first bite on May 17, 1972, Gorske, a retired prison guard, has consumed more than 35,000 of the iconic burgers, setting a Guinness World Records for the most Big Macs eaten in a lifetime.
Despite consuming an average of 600 Big Macs annually for over five decades, Gorske remarkably reports maintaining good health, the Daily Mail reported.
Gorske’s journey began in the spring of 1972 when the taste of his first Big Mac captivated him. This initial experience sparked what would become a lifelong passion, leading him to dedicate nearly 50 years to steadfastly consuming these burgers. Notably, at his peak consumption, Gorske would eat up to nine Big Macs in a single day, though he has since adjusted his intake to a more moderate two burgers per day.
For every Big Mac Gorske has enjoyed, he has meticulously kept each receipt and container, providing concrete evidence of his record-setting endeavor. His unwavering routine showcases not only a commitment to the Big Mac but also a unique method of documenting his personal history with the fast food item.
This unusual dietary habit has sparked widespread curiosity and concern regarding his health. Contrary to expectations, Gorske’s medical checkups reveal a man in unexpected good health. His cholesterol levels and blood sugar remain normal, astonishing many, including Mary Gorske, his wife, who notes his "exceptionally good" cholesterol readings.
Attributing his health to more than just good genes, Gorske credits his daily routine and metabolic rate. He engages in regular physical activity, walking six miles a day, and describes himself as "hyperactive," which he believes plays a crucial role in sustaining his health despite his high-calorie diet.
Gorske's disciplined approach extends beyond just exercise; he also consciously avoids adding fries to his meals, which he believes helps in maintaining his health. This selective eating habit, combined with his high metabolism, forms the cornerstone of his approach to managing his diet.
Gorske’s philosophy towards his Big Mac consumption is as robust as his commitment. He plans to continue his routine until he is unable to chew, humorously noting that his wife has strictly prohibited blending the burgers should chewing become difficult. This lighthearted outlook on a potentially life-long journey illustrates his unique blend of humor and dedication to his eating habits.
Furthermore, the content of saturated fat and salt in Big Macs, particularly in the U.S., where Gorske resides, is notably high, with each burger containing about 11 grams of saturated fat and approximately 2.7 grams of salt. Despite these figures, Gorske remains a testament to an exceptional case in dietary habits.
"Many people thought I'd be dead by now," Gorske admits, reflecting on the general disbelief regarding his health. His response to skeptics is filled with a mix of defiance and humor, which marks his unusual dietary journey. "I might be the only person alive who could eat Big Macs every day without ill effects," he claims, highlighting a personal belief that his body uniquely handles his Big Mac-focused diet.
Gorske's story is not just about his eating records but also about a man's passion and his ability to remain in good health against the odds. His daily walks, described humorously as a trip "around the block", effectively mean a six-mile journey, demonstrating both his commitment to his health and his unique sense of humor.
As Donald Gorske continues to enjoy his Big Macs, his life serves as a captivating story of dietary peculiarity, remarkable health, and the joy one man finds in his daily burger ritual. His tale challenges conventional wisdom about diet and health, proving that sometimes, exceptions can defy the norm.