117-year-old Maria Branyas Morera reveals gut health secrets for longevity
- Researchers analyzed Maria Branyas Morera's genome, microbiome, and lifestyle to understand her longevity.
- The findings revealed that her gut health was exceptionally youthful and rich in beneficial bacteria.
- This study suggests that genetics and healthy lifestyle choices contribute significantly to living a longer, healthier life.
Maria Branyas Morera, who passed away in August 2024 at the age of 117, was an American-Catalan woman known for her remarkable longevity. Born in March 1907 in San Francisco, she lived in Catalonia, Spain, and surpassed the average life expectancy of the region by over 30 years. Researchers conducted a study analyzing her genome, microbiome, and lifestyle, revealing that her biological age was significantly younger than her chronological age. This extraordinary research sought to identify key factors that contributed to her longevity. The study highlighted astonishing findings regarding Morera's gut health, which was reported to be remarkably youthful. Morera's gut contained high levels of Bifidobacterium, recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties. This characteristic led researchers to consider the impact of the gut microbiome on extending life. Despite the connections being unclear, there was a consensus that a balanced gut health is essential for overall well-being and longevity. Additionally, scientists discovered that her genome likely included variations linked to a stronger immune system and a decreased risk of chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease. Morera's efficient lipid metabolism, with low levels of VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides, was also noted, and the research indicated that these factors may have played a role in her exceptional lifespan. The overall findings suggest that good genetics, as well as lifestyle choices, are crucial in attaining advanced age while maintaining health. Morera attributed her longevity to a combination of good genetics, avoiding toxic people, and healthy habits such as adhering to a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits and vegetables, daily walks, and consuming three yogurts a day. This paints a complex picture of how personal choices and genetic predispositions can influence quality of life and longevity. The study ultimately concludes that extremely advanced age does not necessarily equate to poor health, further emphasizing the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout one's life.