Gut health study of world’s oldest person reveals lifestyle key to longevity
Study of world’s oldest person reveals key to ageing well
- Scientists who studied the genome, gut health, and lifestyle of the world’s oldest person, who died in 2024 at age 117, have made a breakthrough in their understanding of longevity.
- They found that Maria Branyas Morera Morera's cells functioned as if they were about 17 years younger than her actual age, and her gut microbiome resembled that of a child, rich in anti-inflammatory bacteria.
- The American-Catalan Caucasian woman’s genome likely contained variations linked to a stronger immune system, reduced cancer risk, and heart disease protection, scientists say.
- Ms Morera's lifestyle included avoiding alcohol and smoking, going on daily walks, and enjoying a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and yoghurt.
- The study, which has not yet been peer reviewed, also found that Ms Morera had low levels of VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which are linked to heart disease.
