The 117-Year Story That Captured Scientific Attention
Maria Branyas Morera, known in scientific circles as M116, lived to 117 years and 168 days. Her remarkable age, while extraordinary, offered researchers a rare window into what sustains health across the lifespan. Born in San Francisco in 1907 and later settling in Spain, Maria’s long life became a living case study in longevity. Rather than a single “super gene,” scientists found a blend of biology, daily habits, and a simple dietary choice that may have helped her stay healthier for longer.
Researchers from the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute analyzed Maria’s biology to understand why she aged so well. Their findings, published in Cell Reports Medicine (2024), point to a robust and youthful gut microbiome as a central factor in her health. The catalyst? A humble habit: consuming yoghurt three times a day—morning, afternoon, and night.
A Simple Habit with Big Biological Effects
Maria’s daily yoghurt routine was not a dieting trend or a dramatic intervention. It was a steady preference she maintained for years, a small act that appears to have had outsized effects on her inner ecosystem. The yoghurt she ate was rich in probiotic bacteria, especially strains such as Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, known to support gut health. Over time, this regular intake helped shape a gut microbiome characterized by beneficial bacteria, including Bifidobacterium, which studies associate with reduced inflammation and improved metabolism.
The result, according to the researchers, was a gut microbiome that looked decades younger than Maria’s actual age. This youthful gut environment is linked to more effective immune responses, better metabolic regulation, and even brain health—all factors that can contribute to a longer, healthier life.
What the Microbiome Could Explain About Aging
As people age, gut bacterial diversity tends to decline, often accompanying chronic inflammation and age-related illnesses. Maria defied this trend. Her gut microbiome appeared anti-inflammatory and metabolically favorable, supporting her overall health. Dr. Manel Esteller, who led the study, suggested that her yoghurt habit may have helped maintain a “young gut” by fostering beneficial bacteria while also reducing fat accumulation and insulin resistance—two markers often linked to longevity.
In addition to the gut findings, Maria carried genetic variants that scientists consider protective against common diseases. Her lipid profile was notably favorable, with high HDL (the
