Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Science
Nicola Davis Science correspondent

Never take health tips from world’s oldest people, say scientists

Tomiko Itooka pictured celebrating her 116th birthday in Ashiya, Hyogo prefecture, Japan,, surrounded by cake and balloons
Tomiko Itooka pictured celebrating her 116th birthday in Ashiya, Hyogo prefecture, Japan, in May. Photograph: Ashiya City Handout/EPA

The death of the world’s oldest person, Maria Branyas Morera, at the age of 117 might cause many to ponder the secrets of an exceptionally long life, but scientists say it could be best to avoid taking advice on longevity from centenarians themselves.

According to the Guinness World Records website, Branyas believed her longevity stemmed from “order, tranquility, good connection with family and friends, contact with nature, emotional stability, no worries, no regrets, lots of positivity and staying away from toxic people”.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.