The world’s oldest person, who reached 117 years, shared that her daily consumption of a certain food helped her maintain her remarkable longevity.
Surpassing the age of 100 is a rare accomplishment, and reaching 117 places you in an extraordinary category. Maria Branyas Morera, once recognized as the world’s oldest living person, passed away at 117 years and 168 days old. Her remarkable longevity intrigued people worldwide, and she shared what she believed contributed to her exceptional lifespan. Among various lifestyle factors, one particular food stood out in her daily routine: yogurt.1
Maria’s Journey: 117 Years of Wisdom and Strength
Born in the United States but spending most of her life in Spain, Maria Branyas Morera lived through some of the most pivotal events in modern history. Her extensive lifespan made her a firsthand witness to both World Wars, the Spanish Civil War, the Spanish Flu pandemic, and the COVID-19 pandemic. A mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she even outlived her eldest son, August, who passed away at 86.
Multiple Contributing Factors
While many speculated about the secret to her long life, Maria attributed it to a combination of elements. In 2022, she shared on social media, “I think longevity is also about being lucky. Luck and good genetics.”
However, luck wasn’t the only factor. Maria believed her diet, emotional well-being, and relationships with loved ones played crucial roles. She emphasized the importance of good nutrition, connecting with nature, maintaining emotional stability, and avoiding toxic people.
The Benefits of Yogurt
Among all the foods in her diet, yogurt held a special place. In an era where people search for superfoods and miracle diets, Maria highlighted the advantages of a humble staple: yogurt. She credited this “lifelong food” for its positive effects on the body and its potential to prolong life. For 20 years, yogurt had been her “heavenly manna,” describing it as a natural, tasty, and creamy food that embodied dignity, self-esteem, and confidence.
Her love for yogurt wasn’t just personal preference. She referenced a Bulgarian study suggesting that regular yogurt consumption could extend life, and even connected it to Persian tradition, where it was said that Abraham’s longevity was due to his regular intake of yogurt.
Blue Zones and the Impact of Diet on Longevity
Although Maria’s belief in yogurt’s role in her long life is intriguing, more scientific evidence emerges when we examine global longevity trends. In regions known as Blue Zones—areas where people live exceptionally long lives, such as Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), and Nicoya (Costa Rica)—diet plays a crucial role.2 Yogurt, rich in probiotics and beneficial bacteria, could be a key component of a diet that promotes longevity.
Dan Buettner, an expert on Blue Zones, identified several essential habits shared by centenarians in these regions. These include plant-based diets, natural movement, stress reduction, and social belonging. While these long-lived individuals may not all consume yogurt specifically, fermented foods and diets rich in probiotics are common staples in many Blue Zone diets.
The Constraints of Centenarian Guidance
While it’s tempting to take centenarians’ lifestyle advice at face value, some experts caution against it. Biogerontologist Richard Faragher points out that centenarians often possess genetic traits that promote longevity, making their advice less applicable to the average person. He warns against survivorship bias, stating that just because certain individuals have lived long lives with specific habits doesn’t mean those habits caused their longevity.3
Nonetheless, this doesn’t diminish the importance of Maria’s approach to life. Maintaining connections with loved ones, staying positive, and eating nutritious food like yogurt are habits that align with broader health and longevity research.
Understanding the Science of Yogurt and Probiotics
Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which are known to promote gut health. A healthy gut is closely linked to improved digestion, immune function, and even mood regulation. Some studies suggest that fermented foods like yogurt can have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing the risk of age-related diseases. Furthermore, probiotics may support cardiovascular health and possibly play a role in longevity by promoting a balanced immune response.
While yogurt alone might not guarantee a life spanning over a century, incorporating it as part of a balanced, nutrient-dense diet can certainly enhance overall well-being.
Insights into Longevity
Maria Branyas Morera’s life offers valuable lessons on longevity. Her daily yogurt habit reminds us of the potential health benefits of simple, nutrient-rich foods. Beyond yogurt, she believed in living a stress-free, positive life filled with connections to family and nature. This balanced approach, along with good genetics and a bit of luck, contributed to her extraordinary lifespan.
While we may not all be destined to reach 117, there’s no harm in following Maria’s example by enjoying a daily serving of yogurt and cultivating a life rich in positivity, health, and connection.
