Lucile Randon, known as Sister André, was a French nun who lived to be 118 years old, making her one of the oldest people in recorded history. Her life and habits offer valuable insights into the factors that contribute to longevity. Born on February 11, 1904, in Ales, France, Sister André's life spanned two world wars and a global pandemic. She worked as a teacher and governess before dedicating nearly three decades to caring for orphans and the elderly in a hospital. In 2009, she moved to the Sainte Catherine Lobouré retirement home in Toulon, France, where she remained until her death on January 17, 2023. Sister André's remarkable life has sparked interest in her diet, lifestyle, and the potential secrets to her long life.
A Daily Dose of Indulgence: Chocolate and Wine
One of the most intriguing aspects of Sister André's lifestyle was her daily consumption of chocolate and wine. She enjoyed a glass of red wine every day, a habit that David Tavella, the activity leader at her nursing home, suggested might be "her longevity secret." While this may seem counterintuitive, moderate alcohol consumption, particularly red wine, has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
Sister André's birthday feasts included a starter of foie gras, followed by capon with fragrant mushrooms, "all of it washed down with red wine, because she drinks red wine. It’s one of her secrets of longevity,” Tavella told The Associated Press.
The French Paradox: Diet and Lifestyle Factors
France has produced two of the world's oldest people, Jeanne Louise Calment and Sister André, leading to questions about the French approach to health and longevity. Several factors may contribute to the French "secret":
- Education and Healthcare: Education is free in France, leading to a better understanding of healthy eating and exercise habits. Healthcare is also free, ensuring access to medical care for all citizens. Countries with free healthcare, such as France, Japan, and Denmark, tend to have longer life expectancies.
- The Mediterranean Diet: The French diet often aligns with the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and seafood while limiting red meat, dairy, and sweets.
- Active Social Life: Calment also had an active social life, having “absolutely nothing to do except to take care of herself, to visit France and have social activities,” says Robine.
Beyond Diet: Other Factors Contributing to Longevity
While diet plays a crucial role, other lifestyle factors also contribute to a long and healthy life. These include:
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- Low Stress: A stress-free approach to life appears to be common among centenarians. As Sister André's daughter said of her mother, "She's a very tranquil person and nothing fazes her."
- Physical Activity: Sister André remained active and engaged in the world around her, enjoying television, music, and visitors.
- Positive Attitude: Centenarians often maintain a positive outlook on life. The centenarians surveyed said that remaining positive is a crucial part of living a long existence.
- Walkability and Mixed-Age Communities: Individuals who reside in very walkable areas with a good mix of ages may have a higher chance of reaching 100.
Common Denominators Among Centenarians
While individual habits vary, some common themes emerge when studying the lives of centenarians and supercentenarians:
- Moderation: "His attitude to life is everything in moderation."
- Purpose and Engagement: Working and staying active can contribute to a longer life. "Working … makes you live."
- Social Connections: Maintaining strong social connections and relationships is essential for well-being and longevity.
Challenging Conventional Wisdom
Sister André's lifestyle challenges some common misconceptions about aging and health. Her enjoyment of chocolate and wine contradicts the notion that a restrictive diet is necessary for longevity. However, it's important to note that moderation is key. While some centenarians indulge in treats, they also maintain a balanced diet and active lifestyle.
The Rise of Centenarians
Living to 100 and beyond is becoming increasingly common. As of 2021, there were more than 500,000 centenarians worldwide, with the United States having the highest number (approximately 97,000). The United Nations predicts that the total number of centenarians will continue to rise in the coming years.
The Enigma of Longevity
Ultimately, the secret to a long life is multifaceted and complex. Genetics, lifestyle, environment, and even luck all play a role. While we can learn from the habits of centenarians like Sister André, there is no one-size-fits-all formula for longevity.
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