Emma Morano of Italy, considered to be the world’s oldest person, died a few days ago at the age of 117 years. Morano who was born in 1899, had a few secrets to share about living such a long and full life.
According to BBC News, Morano owed her longevity to her genes and a diet of three eggs a day, two of which are taken raw. She was the oldest of a brood of eight children, but she outlived all her siblings.
Genes and a Diet of Eggs
Being the world’s oldest living person, Morano was the subject of several news reports and features. People were naturally curious as to how she managed to live for more than 100 years.
She cited “good genes” as one factor, saying that her mother lived up to 91 years of age. Her aunts also made it to 100 years.
She also shared her strange diet of three eggs a day, two of which are taken raw. According to the report, she practiced this daily diet for more than 90 years of her lifetime.
Her doctor also attested to this. He told BBC that for the past 27 years as Morano’s doctor, he noted her diet of two raw eggs in the morning, an omelette for lunch, and chicken for dinner. He also said that fruit and vegetables were a rare part of her diet.
Get Rid of Emotional Stress
The other factor Morano cited for her long life is choosing to get out of an “unhealthy marriage.” Sharing her personal story, she said that she threw out her husband of 13 years in 1938. This was after her infant son died and her husband had become abusive. She also said that the union was doomed from the start: she did not love the man, but she had no choice.
She told the New York Times two years ago that she “did not want to be dominated by anyone.” This is also the reason why she has not re-married.
Gerontologists say that people who live up to their 100’s have different reasons for their longevity. In Emma Morano’s case, diet clearly was a factor, as eating certain types of cuisines can help you live longer. Also, living a life that is balanced with work, recreation and family ties is what centenarians in Spain point to when it comes to their longevity.