What the gut microbiome of the world’s oldest person tells us about lasting health
Study of 117-year-old reveals one way to support lifelong health
- Researchers conducted the most detailed scientific investigation of a supercentenarian, María Branyas Morera, who died at 117, by studying her microbiome.
- Her gut microbiome was found to be as diverse as someone decades younger, notably rich in beneficial Bifidobacterium bacteria.
- This unusually youthful microbiome may have supported her gut and immune health, contributing to her extraordinary longevity.
- Her daily yoghurt habit and adherence to a largely Mediterranean diet are believed to have helped maintain her healthy microbiome.
- The study reinforces that while genetics play a role, nurturing a diverse and beneficial microbiome through diet and lifestyle is linked to better health and resilience.