Very few people on Earth will ever know what it’s like to blow out 117 birthday candles. For Maria Branyas Morera, living past that remarkable milestone wasn’t just a number—it was a life filled with history, love, hardship, and surprising wisdom.

As the world’s oldest living person before her passing at 117 years and 168 days, Maria captured global attention not just for her longevity but for her reflections on what helped her live so long.

Among her many insights, one humble food stood out: yogurt.
In an age where people are chasing miracle supplements, exotic berries, and restrictive diets, Maria’s “secret” to a long life was something most of us can find in our refrigerator. And for her, it wasn’t just a snack—it was a daily ritual, a comfort, and even a symbol of resilience.

A Life Measured in Centuries

Born in San Francisco in 1907 to Spanish parents, Maria eventually returned to Spain where she would live out most of her life. And what a life it was.

She lived through two World Wars. She witnessed the Spanish Civil War. She survived the devastating 1918 flu pandemic—and then lived long enough to experience COVID-19 more than 100 years later. Her life was bookended by two global pandemics that shaped generations.

Maria wasn’t just a witness to history; she was an enduring part of it. She raised three children, saw the world evolve through radio, television, and smartphones, and outlived her eldest son, who died at 86.

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Her story is a rare blend of personal and global resilience. And while many asked for her “secrets,” Maria never claimed to have all the answers. In fact, she often said part of her longevity came down to something many overlook: luck.

“Longevity Is Also About Being Lucky”

In a post shared to social media in 2022, Maria offered her own thoughts on why she had lived so long.