Since World War II, Sister André has lived a life of service as a nun, caring for orphans, the elderly, and the sick. Because of her communal lifestyle, she developed the habit of always eating with others. Though it may seem trivial, she insists it’s one of her keys to long life.

“When you eat together, you talk, laugh, and relieve stress. It keeps your mind relaxed and helps you bond with others. Eating with people also gives your brain time to recognize when you’re full, which prevents overeating and helps control weight,” Sister André explained.

Research from Oxford University (USA) supports this view: people who eat meals with others tend to feel happier and less lonely. A better mood strengthens the immune system—and a stronger immune system can lead to a longer life.

2. Always include your favorite foods at the table
Many people restrict themselves from eating what they love in order to lose weight or follow a strict diet. But Sister André never does that. She always includes her favorite foods at mealtime, as long as she eats them in moderation. Despite her age, she still enjoys a glass of wine and some chocolate whenever she feels like it.

She believes that eating your favorite foods boosts your mood and reduces stress—two essential factors for longevity. A study from University College London (UK) even found that people with better moods had a 35% lower risk of death within five years.

“If you deny yourself the foods you love for too long, your body and mind become exhausted, and stress builds up. It’s hard to stay healthy that way,” she said. Her advice is simple: eat what you love—but do it in moderation, and prepare it in a healthy way.

3. Eat foods rich in antioxidants
A look at Sister André’s daily diet reveals a clear pattern—her meals are full of antioxidant-rich foods. Antioxidants such as flavonoids, flavones, and polyphenols help prevent and reduce damage from free radicals, which cause cell inflammation and accelerate aging.

Health experts also recommend increasing your intake of vegetables and fruits. Not only are they packed with essential vitamins and minerals, but they’re also rich in antioxidants. Examples include beans, radishes, cabbages, raspberries, spinach, and strawberries.

Most plant-based foods naturally contain high levels of antioxidants. That’s why Sister André eats far more vegetables and fruits than meat, following the principle of “less meat, more greens” to maintain her health. This dietary pattern is also common among long-lived people around the world—especially in Japan.

Sister André’s 3 simple eating habits—sharing meals with others, enjoying favorite foods in moderation, and eating antioxidant-rich plants—have not only helped her live longer but also allowed her to live well. Her story reminds us that longevity isn’t about restriction, but about balance, joy, and mindful living.