A recent study has shown that taurine can extend life and improve health in later life. Taurine is a substance that occurs naturally in our bodies and is important for, among other things, the immune system and the nervous system. As we age, the amount of taurine in the body decreases, which is linked to various age-related diseases.
In this large-scale study, conducted on various animal species such as worms, mice and monkeys, taurine supplementation appeared to slow down the ageing process. The animals that received extra taurine lived longer and were healthier at an older age. Among other things, taurine was shown to protect cells against damage and reduce inflammation.
The research shows that taurine supplementation may help to improve quality of life as we grow older. In addition, key signs of ageing such as cellular damage and a slower metabolism are reduced. Scientists are calling for follow-up research to see whether taurine can have the same effect in humans.
Taurine occurs naturally mainly in crustaceans and shellfish, but also in the meat of chicken and turkey. In addition, regular physical exercise can help to increase taurine levels in the body. This makes taurine an interesting substance for people who want to age healthily in a natural way.
These findings are important because they offer hope for simple and safe ways to make ageing healthier.
Source: Buck Institute
