Researchers have discovered that supplementation with taurine, a natural substance in our bodies, leads to a longer and healthier lifespan in various animal species. Taurine is an amino acid that plays an important role in the immune system and our nervous system. In the blood of mice, monkeys and humans, the amount of taurine decreases as we age. This research shows that supplementing with taurine can counteract that decrease.
The study, conducted amongst others in worms, mice and monkeys, shows that sufficient taurine helps to reduce various signs of ageing. It slows down cellular ageing, protects important cells and reduces inflammation. In mice, muscles, bones, brains and the immune system among other things were improved by taurine, and this effect was also seen in monkeys. This indicates that taurine can have a positive effect on maintaining vitality at an older age.
Scientists emphasise that taurine in the body decreases with age and that this potentially contributes to the ageing process. The findings give hope that supplementing taurine could be a safe and relatively simple way to slow down ageing. Because the results have been confirmed in various laboratories and across diverse animal species, there is now a call to also start clinical trials in humans.
Taurine occurs naturally in foods such as shellfish, turkey and chicken. In addition, physical exercise can increase taurine levels in the blood. This aligns with the well-known advice to stay active and eat a varied diet for a healthy old age. Nevertheless, the researchers emphasise that people should not simply start taking taurine supplements without medical advice.
For those looking for ways to age healthily, this research is a valuable step. It shows that substances that occur naturally in our bodies may play a major role in maintaining health and vitality.
Source: Buck Institute
