Luann de Lesseps, the vibrant star of The Real Housewives of New York City, recently shared her surprising yet practical secrets for staying fit and healthy at the age of 59. In an interview with Fox News, Luann revealed that her wellness journey isn’t just about hitting the gym but also about adopting mindful eating habits and lifestyle changes she’s learned over the years, particularly during her stays at Austrian spas. One of her most striking pieces of advice? Don’t drink while you eat. Luann explained that digestion begins in the mouth, where enzymes in our saliva start breaking down food. When we sip on cold beverages during meals, it can dilute those digestive juices, making it harder for our bodies to metabolize what we eat. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of chewing thoroughly and paying attention to the process of eating. This simple habit, she says, can make a big difference in how efficiently our bodies process food.
Another key tip Luann shared is inspired by European eating habits. She noted that Europeans tend to be thinner because they sip wine rather than guzzle large, cold drinks during meals. Of course, this doesn’t mean she’s advocating for excessive alcohol consumption. Instead, she suggests drinking water either 20 minutes before or after eating—never during. This approach prevents digestive enzymes from being watered down, which can slow down metabolism. Luann also pointed out that Americans often eat larger portions and at a faster pace, which can lead to overeating before the brain even registers that it’s full. Her solution? Eat slowly, savor each bite, and give your body time to feel satisfied. This mindful approach not only helps with portion control but also makes the dining experience more enjoyable.
In addition to her eating habits, Luann is a big fan of intermittent fasting, a diet method that restricts eating to an 8-hour window each day. She explained that by delaying her first meal of the day and avoiding food after 6 p.m., she avoids disrupting her digestion during the night. As she put it, “If you have a steak at night, you’re bound to wake up in the middle of the night because digestion needs energy, so it wakes you up.” This approach, she says, has helped her sleep better and maintain her energy levels throughout the day. Luann also shared an unexpected tip: avoid eating salads after 6 p.m. While many people assume salads are a healthy, light option for dinner, Luann pointed out that they’re mostly water, which can water down digestive enzymes and slow down metabolism. Instead, she recommends turning to cooked vegetables, which are easier to digest and provide more nutrients without the same negative impact on digestion.
Luann’s health philosophy is all about balance and making small, sustainable changes. While she’s a strong advocate for mindful eating and intermittent fasting, she also believes in enjoying life. For example, she loves a good glass of wine and isn’t afraid to indulge occasionally. The key, she says, is moderation and being aware of how different choices affect your body and digestion. Her advice is rooted in decades of self-care and a holistic approach to wellness, which she’s learned from her travels to spas in Austria and her own personal experiences with healthy living. By combining these insights into a lifestyle that works for her, Luann has managed to maintain her energy, vitality, and signature elegance at 59.
Beyond her eating habits, Luann is also a firm believer in the importance of staying physically active. She describes herself as a “jock” who loves sports and engages in a variety of exercises to keep her body and mind in top shape. Whether it’s water aerobics, a morning walk to kickstart her metabolism, or an intense SoulCycle class (which she admits isn’t her favorite but does occasionally), Luann believes that staying active is one of the best things you can do for your health. She encourages everyone to find a form of exercise they enjoy and make it a regular part of their routine. For her, staying fit isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling strong, energetic, and confident at any age.
Ultimately, Luann’s fitness and wellness tips boil down to three main ideas: digest well, eat mindfully, and stay active. By paying attention to how and when we eat, avoiding habits that disrupt digestion, and keeping our bodies moving, we can maintain our health and energy as we age. Luann’s approach is refreshingly practical and accessible, proving that staying fit doesn’t have to involve extreme diets or tedious workouts. Instead, it’s about making small, intentional choices that add up over time. As she encourages her fans, it’s all about “keeping it moving” and finding a balance that works for you. Her confidence and zest for life are a testament to the power of these simple yet effective habits.
