A Remarkable Life
Maria Branyas Morera, who passed away at 117, was the world’s oldest known living person. Born in 1907 in San Francisco and later living in Spain, she witnessed two World Wars, the Spanish Civil War, the 1918 flu, and the COVID-19 pandemic. She was a mother, grandmother, and, above all, a quiet observer of global change and personal resilience.
Simple Food, Deep Belief
Maria swore by a daily serving of yogurt, which she called her “heavenly manna.” She believed it played a key role in her longevity. “Living this long takes some luck,” she wrote in 2022. “And good genetics.” But she also emphasized good food, emotional balance, close relationships, and avoiding toxic people. For over 20 years, she ate plain, creamy yogurt every day—not as a trend, but as a cherished habit.
The Science Behind It
Modern research supports her choice. Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which help gut health, immune function, and even mood. These benefits align with longevity trends seen in Blue Zones—regions where people live well past 100 and regularly consume fermented foods like yogurt.
More Than Just Yogurt
Experts warn against crediting one food alone. Aging researcher Richard Faragher notes, “We only hear from people who live long lives.” Still, Maria’s life shows that consistent, thoughtful living matters. Her daily yogurt wasn’t a miracle cure—it was part of a peaceful, grounded lifestyle. As the article concludes:
“A long life isn’t just about extending time—it’s about filling those years with peace, purpose, and pleasure.”
Maria’s story reminds us that sometimes, the smallest rituals—done with care—carry the greatest impact.
