Doctors investigate DNA of 117-year-old woman to find one food that can unlock longer lives

The results were astonishing. Maria’s biology suggested she was 10 to 15 years younger than her actual age, making her a sprightly centenarian at 117.

She had exceptionally low levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol and triglycerides, alongside very high levels of ‘good’ cholesterol.

Her long life was also supported by healthy habits. She exercised regularly, avoided smoking and alcohol, and maintained an active social life. Maria had another unusual habit that may have contributed to her longevity: her love of yogurt.

She favored the Spanish brand La Fageda, a probiotic yogurt known for its inflammation-fighting bacteria. Her mornings often began with a smoothie packed with eight different cereals.

Scientists also noted unique features in her telomeres, the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes. While short telomeres are typically linked to higher mortality, research suggests they may not be a reliable marker of aging in the very old. In Maria’s case, her short telomeres may have even helped protect her, potentially limiting cancer cell growth.