What if the secret to a long life were hiding in a simple cup of yogurt? Or in a morning smoothie? Or perhaps even more powerful— in a life lived without excess, surrounded by loved ones, and filled with small daily pleasures?

That’s what the fascinating story of Maria Branyas Morera suggests. This Spanish supercentenarian blew out 117 candles with a vitality that has left researchers astonished.

Today, scientists are studying her DNA—and her lifestyle—to understand how she managed not only to live so long, but to live well.

A life as long as it was eventful

Born in the United States in 1907, Maria lived through it all: two world wars, 21 U.S. presidents, and the birth of the digital age. Nothing slowed her down. She settled in Catalonia in 1915 and spent the rest of her life there, surrounded by family, books, and a simple, grounded daily routine.

Before passing away in 2024, Maria made an extraordinary decision: she offered her DNA to researchers to be analyzed. Their mission? To discover how she had defied the natural limits of aging.

What her DNA reveals… and what we can learn from it

The research team led by Dr. Manel Esteller from the University of Barcelona uncovered a remarkable biological profile. At 117 years old, Maria had a biological age that was 10 to 15 years younger than her actual age. This rare result appears to be due to a unique combination of strong genetics and exceptionally healthy lifestyle habits.

Her “protective” cholesterol levels were excellent, while harmful fats remained surprisingly low. She never smoked, didn’t drink alcohol, exercised regularly, and maintained an active social life. These habits may sound familiar—but she followed them consistently, day after day, for decades.

The yogurt that made a difference?

What especially caught the researchers’ attention was one of her daily pleasures: a probiotic yogurt from the Spanish brand La Fageda. It’s rich in beneficial bacteria that support gut health and reduce inflammation—two key factors in healthy aging.

Paired with a nutrient-rich smoothie made from eight different grains, this morning ritual may have played a major role in her extraordinary longevity. It seems the secret to a long life might just be… in the fridge.

What if aging isn’t just a matter of luck?

Another surprising discovery: Maria had short telomeres—the protective end caps of chromosomes that are typically associated with a shorter life expectancy. And yet, in her case, this may have actually helped protect against certain types of cancer. A paradox that scientists are still studying, reminding us once again that the aging process is not the same for everyone.

What truly stands out is the message researchers emphasize: age does not necessarily equal decline. “Living to a very old age doesn’t always mean being sick,” they noted, underscoring the importance of healthy habits—supported, of course, by a touch of good genetics.

Maria reminds us that aging is not just about adding years to our lives. It’s about how we live those years: staying active, generous, connected to others… and faithful to the little routines that bring us joy. Maybe that’s the real secret to aging well.