Living past 100 is a rare achievement, and reaching the age of 117 is truly extraordinary. Maria Branyas Morera, once the world’s oldest living person, passed away at 117 years and 168 days. Her remarkable longevity drew global attention, and she openly shared what she believed contributed to her long life.
Maria’s Journey: 117 Years of Resilience
Born in the United States, Maria spent most of her life in Spain. Her life spanned pivotal moments in history, including both World Wars, the Spanish Civil War, the Spanish Flu, and the COVID-19 pandemic. She was a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who outlived her eldest son, August, who passed away at 86.
The Ingredients for Longevity
Maria attributed her longevity to a mix of factors. In 2022, she shared on social media that “longevity is about being lucky—luck and good genetics.” However, her lifestyle choices also played a key role. She emphasized the importance of a healthy diet, emotional well-being, connection with nature, and avoiding toxic people.
Yogurt: The Secret Ingredient
Of all her dietary habits, yogurt stood out. While many search for superfoods, Maria praised the humble yogurt, crediting it for its positive impact on her health. She referred to yogurt as her “heavenly manna” and had consumed it daily for over 20 years. According to Maria, yogurt was natural, creamy, and beneficial, representing dignity, self-esteem, and confidence.
Her belief in yogurt’s benefits was not just personal. She referenced studies that supported the idea that regular yogurt consumption could extend life, linking it to historical traditions where yogurt was seen as a longevity food.
Diet and Longevity: The Blue Zones
Globally, diet plays a vital role in longevity, particularly in areas known as Blue Zones, where people live exceptionally long lives. In regions like Okinawa, Japan, and Sardinia, Italy, fermented foods, including yogurt, are common staples. Dan Buettner, an expert on Blue Zones, identified habits shared by centenarians, such as plant-based diets, regular movement, stress reduction, and strong social bonds. While yogurt itself may not be universal, its health benefits are reflected in these dietary patterns.
While Maria’s lifestyle offers valuable insights, some experts urge caution in attributing longevity solely to diet. Biogerontologist Richard Faragher warns against assuming that specific habits directly cause long life, pointing to genetic factors that also play a role.
Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which support gut health, digestion, immune function, and even mood regulation. Studies show that fermented foods like yogurt can have anti-inflammatory effects and may reduce the risk of age-related diseases, supporting cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
The Takeaway
Maria Branyas Morera’s life serves as a reminder of the power of simple, nutritious foods like yogurt. Along with her stress-free, positive outlook on life and close connections with loved ones, her balanced approach likely contributed to her exceptional longevity. While we may not all reach 117, adopting some of Maria’s habits—like enjoying a daily serving of yogurt and nurturing positivity—can certainly contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
