117-Year-Old’s Mediterranean Diet Secrets for Longevity
Scientists have uncovered key insights into lifelong health and longevity from the gut microbiome of María Branyas Morera, a supercentenarian who lived to 117. The study found that María’s microbiome was exceptionally diverse and rich in beneficial Bifidobacterium bacteria, a feature linked to her adherence to a Mediterranean diet and daily yoghurt consumption. In Malta, where Mediterranean cuisine is both a tradition and a lifestyle, this research highlights the importance of nutrient-rich, microbiome-friendly foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, olive oil, fish, and fermented products. Restaurants across the island are increasingly incorporating these principles, offering dishes that promote gut health and overall well-being. The findings underscore the role of mindful eating in supporting resilience and longevity, reaffirming Malta’s position as a destination for authentic, health-promoting culinary experiences.
Discover the Secret to Lifelong Health: Lessons from a 117-Year-Old Supercentenarian
What can the diet and lifestyle of someone who lived to 117 teach us about health and longevity? Scientists recently conducted an in-depth investigation into the gut microbiome of María Branyas Morera, the world’s oldest person before her passing. Their findings reveal fascinating insights into how food and lifestyle choices can nurture lifelong health—insights that resonate deeply with Malta’s love for Mediterranean cuisine and its focus on wellness.
The study revealed that María’s gut microbiome was exceptionally diverse—comparable to someone decades younger—and notably rich in beneficial Bifidobacterium bacteria. This youthful microbiome likely supported her immune and gut health, forming a key pillar of her extraordinary longevity. Intriguingly, María’s daily habit of eating yoghurt and her adherence to a predominantly Mediterranean diet were identified as crucial factors in maintaining this healthy microbiome.
Here in Malta, the Mediterranean diet is more than a culinary tradition; it’s a lifestyle celebrated for its health benefits. Featuring fresh vegetables, fruits, olive oil, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins like fish, this diet is renowned for promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting a balanced gut microbiome—the very factors the study highlights as essential for resilience and well-being.
While genetics undeniably play a role in longevity, this research reinforces the importance of cultivating a diverse and beneficial gut microbiome through mindful eating and lifestyle choices. For those in Malta, this serves as a reminder that the island’s rich culinary heritage, combined with simple habits like enjoying fresh yoghurt or fermented foods, can be a recipe for a healthier and longer life.
Restaurants across Malta are increasingly embracing the principles of the Mediterranean diet, offering dishes that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to support gut health. From vibrant salads featuring locally grown produce to seafood dishes rich in omega-3s, dining out can be an opportunity to nourish both body and soul.
The findings from María Branyas Morera’s life underscore the importance of gut health in achieving longevity. Whether you’re exploring Malta’s thriving restaurant scene, shopping at local farmer’s markets, or preparing meals at home, prioritizing nutrient-rich, microbiome-friendly foods is a step toward better health and resilience—and perhaps even a longer life.