Researchers have suggested that a common supermarket food may have played a significant role in the remarkable longevity of Maria Branyas Morera, a woman who lived to be 117 years old and survived various challenges including wars, pandemics, and even Covid. Maria, who was the oldest person globally at the time of her passing in 2024, had requested doctors to study her to benefit others before her death.
A team of scientists in Spain, where Maria had lived since childhood after being born in San Francisco in 1907, examined her biological profile. This investigation, led by researchers from the University of Barcelona and Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, involved collecting samples from Maria and analyzing her cells and genetics.
Dr. Manel Esteller, the lead researcher, highlighted the uniqueness of Maria’s health, noting that despite her advanced age, she remained exceptionally healthy. The study aimed to understand the reasons behind her exceptional health and longevity, separating the aging process from illness.
Notably, Maria’s lifestyle choices, such as abstaining from alcohol and cigarettes, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying socially active, were commendable. However, researchers also took an interest in her daily consumption of a specific food item, which she enjoyed three times a day.
Yoghurt, particularly the Spanish probiotic variety La Fageda, was a staple in Maria’s diet. This yoghurt reportedly contained bacteria known for fighting inflammation. Additionally, she started her mornings with a cereal-rich smoothie comprising eight different cereal types.
Researchers found that Maria had low inflammation levels and genetic variations related to cholesterol and lipid metabolism, which are linked to increased lifespan. Yoghurt is widely recognized for its potential health benefits, offering essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and B vitamins that support digestive health.
Consuming yoghurt, known for its probiotics, may strengthen immune defenses and help combat various ailments, including Covid-19, influenza, rotavirus, gastroenteritis, and common colds. The presence of trace minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium in yoghurt can further boost immune health. Vitamin D-enriched yoghurt is believed to enhance the body’s ability to fight illnesses like flu and colds.
The study’s findings underscore the potential health advantages of incorporating yoghurt into one’s diet, highlighting its role in promoting overall well-being and longevity.
