Maria Branyas Morera, who was born on March 4, 1907, in San Francisco, gained international recognition as the world's oldest person. In January 2023, Guinness World Records acknowledged her remarkable longevity after she surpassed the previous record held by French nun Lucile Randon, who lived to be 118. Morera passed away last August in Spain at the age of 117, leaving behind a legacy that challenges conventional perceptions of aging.
Her journey began when her parents, originally from Spain and Mexico, moved to the United States before her birth. After spending her early years in Texas and New Orleans, her family returned to Spain in 1915. She eventually settled in Catalonia, where she spent the majority of her life. Throughout her years, Maria Branyas Morera witnessed and lived through pivotal global events, including the Spanish Civil War, World War II, the 1918 flu pandemic, and the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2020, she made headlines when she contracted Covid-19 and recovered.
Maria Branyas Morera attributed her impressive longevity to "luck and good genetics."
“I think longevity is also being lucky,” added Branyas, who expressed herself later in life with a voice-to-text device. “Luck and good genetics” – Maria Branyas Morera
Research led by University of Barcelona genetics professor Manel Esteller revealed fascinating insights into her remarkable lifespan. The study suggested that the genes she inherited allowed her cells to essentially feel and behave as if they were 17 years younger than their actual age. Her microbiota, which refers to the bacteria in the gut, mirrored that of an infant, further supporting the notion that her genetic makeup played a crucial role in her longevity.
Moreover, Maria Branyas Morera adhered to a Mediterranean diet that included three yogurts daily. This lifestyle choice may have contributed to her health and longevity. Despite the challenges of aging, she retained her lucidity until almost the very end of her life. Her case challenges the perception that aging and sickness are inexorably linked.
“Order, tranquility, good connection with family and friends, contact with nature, emotional stability, no worries, no regrets, lots of positivity and staying away from toxic people” – Maria Branyas Morera
Her unique outlook on life and philosophy on maintaining emotional stability and positivity likely played a role in her enduring resilience. The research on Maria Branyas Morera's genes has sparked interest in understanding how genetics can influence aging and health.