In a world obsessed with complex anti-aging solutions, the story of Maria Branyas Morera offers a refreshingly simple perspective. Until her death in 2024 at 117, she was the world’s oldest person, a title she held with grace and a sharp mind—her social media bio cheekily noted she was “very old but not an idiot.” Her secret to a long life, as it turns out, was not a mysterious pill but a blend of good genes, a daily habit of eating yogurt, and a profound commitment to emotional tranquillity.
At Maria’s own request, scientists performed a posthumous study of her DNA, eager to understand the biological secrets behind her century-plus of life. The investigation revealed that her body had aged slower than the calendar; biologically, she was 10 to 15 years younger than her 117 years. Her blood work was particularly impressive, showing an ideal balance of cholesterol and triglycerides that would be the envy of many people half her age. This internal health was the foundation upon which her long life was built.
While her parents provided her with a fortunate genetic starting point, Maria actively cultivated her health. She avoided smoking and drinking, valued physical activity, and cherished her connections with family and friends. Her diet included a notable staple: a specific brand of probiotic yogurt. Researchers believe that the consistent intake of this inflammation-fighting food may have played a meaningful role in maintaining her health over the decades, proving that sometimes the simplest foods can have the most powerful effects.
The scientific findings also included a fascinating paradox. Maria’s telomeres—the protective ends of chromosomes—were short, which is usually a sign of advanced aging and poor health. However, in her case, scientists hypothesized that this might have been beneficial, potentially offering a natural defense against cancer. This discovery reminds us that the biology of the extremely old is a frontier full of surprises, where conventional rules do not always apply.
Ultimately, Maria’s own advice remains the most compelling guide. She attributed her longevity to “order, tranquillity, good connection with family and friends, contact with nature, emotional stability, no worries, no regrets, lots of positivity, and staying away from toxic people.” Her life serves as a powerful testament to the idea that a long and healthy existence is not just about what we eat or our genes, but also about how we cultivate peace and happiness in our daily lives.
