Taurine Supplements Can Slow Down Ageing, Says Study
A new study has suggested that taurine, an amino acid found in meat, fish, eggs, and some energy drinks, may have anti-ageing effects. Research conducted on mice and monkeys indicated that taurine supplements can help to slow down the ageing process. The study found that the lifespan of mice that consumed taurine increased by an average of 12% in females and 10% in males, which translates to an additional three to four months compared to the control group. In monkeys, the supplements were associated with improvements in immune systems, bone density, and metabolic health after just six months of use.
Taurine Deficiency Contributes To Aging In Humans
The researchers also looked at the data of a study involving 12,000 adults aged 60 and above from Europe, and found that those with higher taurine levels were healthier. They had lower rates of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and inflammation. However, these are associations and do not establish causation. Nevertheless, the study’s lead, Professor Vijay Yadav from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, said that the association is consistent with the possibility that taurine deficiency contributes to ageing in humans.
Exercise Could Also Boost Taurine Levels
The team also measured taurine levels in athletes and people who took part in a strenuous cycling workout before and after the activity. They found that there was a significant increase in taurine levels in both athletes, including sprinters and endurance runners, and participants in the cycling exercise. According to Professor Yadav, an increase in taurine levels post-exercise suggests that some of the health benefits of exercise may come from taurine.
The Promise of Taurine as an Anti-Aging Strategy
Professor Yadav highlighted that taurine levels go down with age, and restoring taurine to a youthful level in old age could be a promising anti-ageing strategy. The findings of the study, he said, suggest that taurine could be an “elixir of life” within us that helps us live longer and healthier lives.
Conclusion
Taurine supplements have been linked to a range of health benefits, including anti-ageing effects. While the study on mice and monkeys found that taurine increased lifespan and improved health, researchers noted that more studies are needed to determine the optimal levels of taurine for humans. Nevertheless, the results suggest that taurine could be a promising anti-ageing strategy in the future.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings