The world’s oldest person, who lived until the age of 117, credited a specific food she ate daily as part of her longevity secret.
Surpassing the age of 100 is an achievement few attain, and reaching 117 places you in a category all your own. Maria Branyas Morera, once acknowledged as the world’s oldest living person, passed away at 117 years and 168 days old. Her remarkable longevity captivated global attention, and she shared insights into what she believed contributed to her exceptional lifespan. Among various lifestyle choices, one particular food stood out in her daily regimen: 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 became a living witness to some of the most significant events in modern history, including both World Wars, the Spanish Civil War, the Spanish Flu pandemic, and the COVID-19 pandemic. She was a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who outlived her eldest son, August, who died at the age of 86.
A Combination of Factors
While many speculate about the secret to such a long life, Maria attributed it to a blend 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 proper nutrition, connecting with nature, maintaining emotional stability, and avoiding toxic individuals.
The Power of Yogurt
Among all the foods in her diet, yogurt held a special significance. In a time when people search for superfoods and miracle diets, Maria highlighted the benefits of this humble staple. She credited this “lifelong food” for its positive effects on the body and its potential to prolong life. Maria described yogurt as her “heavenly manna” for 20 years, calling it a natural, tasty, and creamy food that embodied dignity, self-esteem, and confidence.
Her affection for yogurt wasn’t merely a personal preference. She referenced a Bulgarian study suggesting that regular yogurt consumption could extend life, and she connected it to Persian tradition, where it was said that Abraham’s longevity was due to his consistent intake of yogurt.
Blue Zones and Diet’s Role in Longevity
While Maria’s belief in yogurt’s role in her long life is intriguing, there is additional scientific support when we examine global longevity trends. In regions known as the 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 longevity-promoting diet.
Dan Buettner, an expert on Blue Zones, identified several indispensable habits shared by centenarians across these regions. These include plant-based diets, natural movement, stress reduction, and a sense of 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 Limitations of Centenarian Advice
While it’s tempting to take centenarians’ lifestyle advice at face value, some experts caution against doing so. Biogerontologist Richard Faragher points out that centenarians often have genetic traits that promote longevity, making their advice less applicable to the average person. Faragher warns against survivorship bias, stating that just because certain individuals have lived long lives with specific habits does not mean those habits caused their longevity.3
However, this does not diminish the importance of Maria’s approach to life. Maintaining connections with loved ones, staying positive, and eating nutritious food, such as yogurt, are habits that align with broader health and longevity research.
The Science Behind 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 even 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 into a balanced, nutrient-dense diet may certainly help enhance overall well-being.
The Lessons of Longevity
Maria Branyas Morera’s life offers valuable lessons on longevity. Her daily yogurt habit serves as a reminder of the potential health benefits of simple, nutrient-rich foods. Beyond yogurt, Maria believed in living a stress-free, positive life, filled with connections to family and nature. This balanced approach to living, 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.
