Science continues to move closer to unraveling the mystery of extreme longevity, and a new study may have taken a decisive step forward.
An analysis of the DNA of María Branyas Morera, who lived to the age of 117, has revealed fascinating clues about the factors that may influence a long and healthy life. Her story, shaped by more than a century of experiences, has sparked enormous interest within the scientific community.
A Life That Spanned More Than a Century
María Branyas Morera was born on March 4, 1907, in the United States, at a time when the world had yet to imagine many of the technological advances we now take for granted. Her life was a true journey through history: she lived through two world wars, the COVID-19 pandemic, and witnessed the rise of the digital age. After moving with her family to Catalonia in 1915, María developed a deep connection with nature and the Mediterranean lifestyle—factors that may have played a key role in her longevity.
Before her death in 2024, she made a very specific request: that a team of Spanish scientists be allowed to analyze her biological and genetic profile to understand the reasons behind her exceptional health. Researchers from the University of Barcelona and the Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute took part in the study, collecting tissue samples and examining the genetic makeup of the supercentenarian.
Separating Aging From Disease
Dr. Manel Esteller, the lead researcher on the project, explained in an interview that María’s case was unique. “The general rule is that as we age, we get sicker, but she was an exception, and we wanted to understand why,” he said. According to the researcher, the findings made it possible to “separate aging from disease,” something that until now had seemed impossible.
The Yogurt Habit That Caught Scientists’ Attention
The analyses showed that María’s biology was equivalent to that of someone 10 to 15 years younger than her actual age. She had low levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides, along with high levels of good cholesterol, which surprised specialists. In addition, she maintained strong cardiovascular health, a sharp mind, and an energy level that defied expectations.
One habit that particularly caught scientists’ attention was her love of yogurt, especially from the Spanish brand La Fageda, known for its high probiotic content, which helps reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. María started her mornings with a smoothie that combined this yogurt with eight types of cereals, a routine that experts believe may have had a positive impact on her gut microbiota and, as a result, on her overall well-being.
Telomeres and Protection Against Disease
Another aspect that fascinated researchers was the study of her telomeres, the structures that protect the ends of chromosomes. Normally, their shortening is associated with aging, but in María’s case, scientists observed a variation that may have protected her from serious illnesses, including certain types of cancer.
Dr. Esteller stated that extreme longevity is the result of “a combination of what we inherit and what we do with what we inherit.” In other words, it is a balanced mix of genetics and a healthy lifestyle.
Beyond the scientific findings, María also left behind a powerful message. After surviving COVID-19 at the age of 113, she became the oldest person to recover from the disease and used the media attention to share a reflection with the world: “This pandemic has shown that older people are the forgotten ones in our society. They have fought all their lives; they did not deserve to leave this world in this way.”
Wisdom, Humor, and a Full Life
Her social media biography described her with humor: “Very old, but not an idiot.” She lived in Catalonia surrounded by her family—three children, eleven grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren—and shared advice on how to achieve a long and fulfilling life. Among her key recommendations were emotional calm, positivity, staying connected to nature, and above all, keeping distance from toxic people.
The story of María Branyas Morera not only inspires but also offers science a unique opportunity to better understand the secrets of human longevity. Her example shows that living longer depends not only on genes, but also on small daily habits, one’s attitude toward life, and perhaps on a simple yet powerful food: a yogurt at the start of the day.
