A deficiency of this amino acid drives aging
Scientists are excited about the results of a 2023 study that found that taurine increases lifespan by up to 12% in worms, mice and monkeys. In humans, this equates to living about seven to eight years longer! The study, Taurine deficiency as a driver of aging, was published in Science on 8 June 2023.
Benefits
The brain
Taurine benefits the brain in many ways. Its powerful anti-inflammatory properties may explain its positive effects on conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, depression, anxiety and poor memory. It slows brain aging and may protect us against strokes. A note of caution: people with bipolar disorder must speak to their doctor before taking taurine.
Liver and gallbladder
Taurine benefits those with fatty liver. It fights free radical damage and inflammation in the liver, and promotes healthy mitochondrial functioning of liver cells. It helps form bile salts, which are needed for proper digestion.
Eyes
Taurine protects the retina against oxidation. It may also improve eye fatigue.
Ears
Taurine may slow hearing loss and may reduce tinnitus. More research is necessary in this regard.
Cardiovascular health
Taurine may lower triglyceride levels, blood pressure, inflammation and oxidation. These are all regarded as risk factors for heart disease.
Diabetes
Diabetics are prone to develop a taurine deficiency. Supplementing with taurine may enhance insulin sensitivity. Because diabetics are prone to developing cardiovascular problems, they are good candidates for supplementing with taurine.
Food sources and supplementation
Although the body produces this amino acid naturally, aging slows this process and necessitates obtaining it from external sources such as diet and supplementation. Vegans and vegetarians are particularly at risk since the richest food sources that contain it are shellfish, especially scallops, mussels and clams, followed by chicken and turkey. Red meat, dairy, eggs and fish contain moderate amounts.
While taurine was originally extracted from ox bile, nowadays, supplements are made in laboratories. Supplementing with 500 - 3,000 mg per day is generally regarded as safe, but speak to your medical practitioner if you are sick or have any underlying medical conditions. The Harvard professor and longevity expert, Dr. David Sinclair, takes 2,000 mg of taurine daily.
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