Blowing out 117 birthday candles isn’t something many will ever experience. But Maria Branyas Morera didn’t just reach that extraordinary age — she lived a life bursting with history, resilience, and unexpected lessons.
As the world’s oldest living person before her peaceful passing at 117 years and 168 days, Maria captivated millions not just with her longevity, but with the simple secret she swore by: yogurt.
In a world chasing the latest superfoods and miracle supplements, Maria’s “fountain of youth” was something you could find in any fridge — a humble, creamy ritual that carried her through more than a century of change.
A Century-Spanning Life Like No Other
Born in 1907 in San Francisco to Spanish parents, Maria returned to Spain and witnessed some of history’s most tumultuous moments — from two world wars and the Spanish Civil War to the 1918 flu pandemic and, astonishingly, COVID-19 over 100 years later.
She wasn’t just a witness to history. She was a living testament to endurance, raising three children, adapting to a world transformed by radio, television, and smartphones, and even outliving her eldest son.
The Secret? Luck, Love — and Yogurt
Maria never claimed to have all the answers. “Longevity is also about being lucky,” she said in a 2022 social media post, crediting genetics, balanced eating, emotional wellbeing, nature, and—most importantly—steering clear of toxic people.
But what made her daily routine truly special was yogurt. Her “heavenly manna,” as she called it, was more than nourishment — it was comfort, dignity, and a small act of self-care that connected her to ancient traditions and modern science alike.
Why Yogurt?
Far from a fad, yogurt is a powerhouse packed with probiotics — those tiny helpers that boost gut health, immunity, mood, and maybe even slow aging. Maria’s devotion echoes what researchers find in the world’s “Blue Zones,” regions where people live the longest, often thanks to fermented foods and mindful daily habits.
Experts Weigh In: It’s Not Just Yogurt — It’s Everything
Scientists warn against oversimplifying longevity stories. Genetics, luck, environment, and lifestyle all intertwine. But Maria’s approach — peaceful living, close family bonds, nourishing food, and yes, that daily spoonful of yogurt — paints a compelling picture of simple, graceful aging.
More Than a Number: A Life Well Lived
Maria Branyas Morera teaches us that longevity isn’t just about years — it’s about how you live them. It’s waking up with purpose, choosing joy, embracing simplicity, and honoring your body and mind.
Her story is a timeless reminder: the key to a long, rich life might just be found in the quiet rituals we keep — maybe even in a cup of yogurt.
So, what’s your “heavenly manna”?
