World's Oldest Person, Maria Branyas, Lived to 117 Thanks to Genes and Lifestyle
Maria Branyas Morera, the world's oldest person before her passing last year at 117, lived a simple yet fulfilling life in a small Catalan town. Her extreme longevity captivated scientists, who discovered unique genetic and lifestyle factors contributing to her remarkable health and longevity.
Branyas maintained a Mediterranean diet and walked nearly everywhere, which likely played a significant role in her exceptional lifespan. Her genetic profile showed variants protecting against cardiovascular disease and no harmful risk factors like Alzheimer's. Blood tests revealed low inflammation markers and a robust immune system. Even her gut microbiome resembled that of much younger individuals, suggesting a potential link between diet and longevity. Despite having short telomeres and mutated blood cells, typical hallmarks of aging, Branyas remained free from age-related diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's. Geneticist Manel Esteller, who studied her biology over several years, attributed her health and longevity to a combination of genetics and lifestyle choices. Branyas, born in San Francisco and raised in Spain, enjoyed quality time with family and friends, playing with dogs, reading books, and tending to her garden. She even played the piano well into her 110s, maintaining a sharp mind and making new friends until her final days.
Maria Branyas Morera's extraordinary life and health at 117 have provided valuable insights into the factors contributing to exceptional longevity. While her case is unique, her story underscores the potential impact of a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and a positive lifestyle on overall health and longevity. Further research is needed to understand the broader implications of her findings for the general public.
