World’s oldest woman lived to 117 with Bifidobacterium in gut microbiome: Here’s what it means for you

Ever wondered what it looks like to have a gut like a child’s, even when you're 117? Maria Branyas Morera, who held the title of the world’s oldest person until her passing in August 2024 knew all about it. Research found that her gut was packed with Bifidobacterium, the kind of beneficial bacteria usually found in infants, and this, researchers say, could be a major part of her secret to outliving time. The study was posted in February 25 to the preprint server bioRxiv and was not peer-reviewed.

These microbes are excellent. They help reduce chronic low-grade inflammation (also known as “inflammaging”), support your immune system, keep your gut lining strong, and can even influence your brain and bone health. In Maria’s case, her gut environment was essentially anti-inflammatory, which likely helped her stay sharp, mobile, and free from major disease deep into her 110s.

Scientists found Maria’s gut resembled that of a child, not full of harmful pathogens, but rich with balanced, life-supporting microbes that kept her metabolism humming and her body resilient. Researchers say the bacteria in her gut participated in reducing systemic inflammation and keeping her immune system and metabolism in sync.

Here’s the kicker: Maria didn’t rely on fancy probiotics. Her gut got that magic thanks to a lifestyle straight out of a health writer’s dream. She ate three servings of yogurt every single day, followed a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, veggies, legumes, and whole grains, stayed active with daily walks, avoided alcohol and smoking, and nurtured tight family bonds.

That yogurt habit likely helped top up her gut with healthy microbes like Lactobacillus and nurtured the growth of other good bacteria, including Bifidobacterium. The Mediterranean diet did the rest by feeding these microbes fibers and nutrients they need to thrive.

We can’t ignore the role of genetics here. Her cells “felt” around 17 years younger than she was, a sign that lucky gene variants, a balanced gut, and the right lifestyle all came together to keep her body running younger, longer.

Feed your gut: Eat fiber-rich, whole foods, and consider probiotic fare like yogurt (look for live cultures; skip the neon-colored sugary stuff).

Embrace the Mediterranean way: Plant-based meals, modest healthy fats, and minimal processed foods all help the gut-friendly bacteria thrive.
Stay active—even daily walks count: Physical movement helps your gut and mind stay balanced.
Love your people and your peace: A low-stress social life that keeps you connected may influence your gut too.

It is important to incorporate regular exercise into your routine.

Practices such as meditation and yoga are crucial for longevity.

Why wait? Start your wellness journey today. With right exercises and mindfulness, one can achieve a healthy and long life

(Image: Canva)

New studies show that quality sleep and gut health are closely linked, and Maria Branyas’ lifestyle highlighted that well. Poor sleep disrupts the balance of gut bacteria, leading to inflammation and metabolic issues, while a healthy gut microbiome supports the production of serotonin and melatonin—hormones that regulate sleep. Maria’s routine of consistent sleep, daily walks, and low stress may have worked hand-in-hand with her gut microbes to keep her circadian rhythm strong. For most of us, prioritizing 7–8 hours of good sleep alongside a fiber-rich diet can be one of the simplest ways to nurture long-term vitality.