In a post shared to social media in 2022, Maria offered her own thoughts on why she had lived so long.
“I think longevity is also about being lucky. Luck and good genetics,” she wrote.
But she didn’t stop there. Maria was quick to credit other factors too: eating well, staying emotionally balanced, nurturing relationships, spending time in nature, and most importantly, steering clear of toxic people.
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Her message was as simple as it was profound: eat with care, live with intention, and surround yourself with love—not stress.
And for Maria, no food embodied that philosophy better than yogurt.
Yogurt: Her “Heavenly Manna”
Yogurt wasn’t just a snack to Maria—it was sacred. She called it her “heavenly manna,” and for more than 20 years, she made it a daily part of her life. It was natural, simple, and creamy—something she associated not only with nourishment but with dignity and self-respect.
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She believed in its power so deeply that she referenced ancient traditions and modern science alike. Maria often cited a Bulgarian study that connected yogurt to increased lifespan. She also admired Persian traditions, which claimed that Abraham’s biblical longevity was tied to daily yogurt consumption.
While that might sound quaint or even mythical, Maria’s commitment to yogurt wasn’t rooted in blind faith—it reflected a deep trust in nature’s simplest gifts.
The Science of a Centenarian’s Snack
Maria’s devotion to yogurt might sound unusual to some, but science backs her up more than you might think.
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Yogurt is rich in probiotics—those beneficial bacteria that support gut health. A healthy gut doesn’t just help digestion. Research shows it’s linked to better mood, stronger immunity, and reduced inflammation. Some studies even suggest that probiotics may support cardiovascular health and contribute to slowing the aging process.
In essence, yogurt is a quiet powerhouse. It doesn’t make flashy claims, but its effects ripple throughout the body. And when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet, it can genuinely contribute to better health—and possibly a longer life.
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