The Secret to a 117-Year Life: What We Can Learn from Maria Branyas Morera

Maria Branyas Morera lived to be 117, making her the world’s oldest living person before her passing in August 2024. Genetics played a significant role in her longevity, as her DNA and gut microbiome functioned as if they belonged to someone much younger. Branyas' healthy lifestyle choices, including abstaining from alcohol and smoking, engaging in regular moderate exercise, and following a Mediterranean diet, also likely contributed to her long and healthy life. She believed that factors such as order, tranquility, good connections with family and friends, staying away from toxic people, and lots of positivity helped her survive in good health for so long.

Research suggests that following a Mediterranean-style diet, characterized by plant-based whole foods, can help increase longevity by reducing the risk of chronic diseases. In contrast, diets high in ultra-processed foods and processed meat have been linked to an increased risk of diseases like cancer and heart disease. Making healthier food choices, like consuming more whole foods and fewer sugary drinks and processed meats, could potentially add an extra decade of life expectancy in one's 40s. The Mediterranean diet has been crowned the healthiest diet for the eighth year in a row, as it focuses on diet quality and has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic health conditions while promoting longevity and improving quality of life.