Doctors Study the DNA and Diet of a 117-Year-Old Woman to Understand Longevity
Stories about people who live beyond 100 often lead researchers to ask: what allows some individuals to age exceptionally well? Scientists have studied the genetics, lifestyle, and diets of supercentenarians (people who live to 110 or older) to look for clues.
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One frequently studied case is Emma Morano, who lived to age 117 and was among the oldest verified people in history. Researchers have examined the lives of people like her to understand the roles of genetics, environment, and daily habits in extreme longevity.
The “one food” often linked to her longevity: eggs
Emma Morano was known for a very simple diet that included:
- Eggs (especially fresh eggs)
- Some meat earlier in life
- Simple foods such as pasta and fruit
She reportedly ate three eggs a day for many years (two raw and one cooked when she was younger), a habit she credited as part of her routine.
However, scientists do not consider eggs a proven “longevity food” that can make people live to 117. Her long life likely resulted from a combination of factors, including:
- 🧬 Genetic advantages that may have protected her from age-related diseases
- 🍽️ A simple, consistent diet
- 🚶 An active lifestyle
- 🧠 Stress management and social connections
- 🚭 Avoiding smoking
- ⚖️ Maintaining a healthy body weight
What longevity research suggests about diet
Studies of long-lived populations generally point toward patterns rather than a single magic food:
- Plenty of vegetables and fruits
- Beans and other plant proteins
- Whole grains
- Nuts and seeds
- Healthy fats such as olive oil
- Adequate protein, especially with aging
Foods like eggs can be part of a healthy diet because they provide protein, vitamins, and minerals—but they are only one piece of the picture.
The takeaway
A 117-year-old person’s diet can provide interesting clues, but longevity is not caused by one food alone. Exceptional lifespan usually comes from a complex mix of genetics, lifestyle, environment, and chance.
