Taurine is an amino acid that is found in high concentrations in the heart, brain, eyes, and muscles. It is also an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Taurine is produced in the body, but it can also be obtained from food. Good sources of taurine include seafood, meat, and dairy products.
What does taurine do?
Taurine has many important functions in the body. It helps to protect cells from damage, regulate blood pressure, and maintain heart health. Taurine is also involved in vision, learning, and memory.
Taurine and aging
A recent study found that taurine deficiency is a driver of aging in animals. The study found that taurine deficiency led to a decline in physical and cognitive function, as well as an increased risk of death. Taurine supplementation reversed these effects and improved lifespan in mice.
Study findings
The study, which was conducted by researchers at Columbia University and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, looked at the effects of taurine deficiency on aging in mice. The mice were fed a diet that was either deficient in taurine or that contained a normal amount of taurine. The mice were then followed for a period of two years.
The researchers found that the mice that were deficient in taurine had a number of age-related problems, including:
- Reduced muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Decline in cognitive function
- Increased risk of death
The mice that were supplemented with taurine did not experience these problems. In fact, the taurine-supplemented mice had a longer lifespan than the mice that were not supplemented.
Implications for humans
The findings of this study suggest that taurine may be important for preventing age-related decline. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal amount of taurine that humans need to consume.
How can we get more taurine?
Good sources of taurine include seafood, meat, and dairy products. If you are not getting enough taurine from your diet, you may want to consider taking a taurine supplement.
What are the potential benefits of taurine supplementation?
In addition to potentially slowing down the aging process, taurine supplementation may also have other benefits, such as:
- Improved heart health
- Reduced risk of eye disease
- Improved cognitive function
- Increased athletic performance
Conclusion
Taurine is an important amino acid that has many benefits for human health. The findings of the study published in “Nature Metabolism” suggest that taurine may be a key to longer and healthier life. If you are looking for ways to improve your health and well-being, consider adding taurine to your diet or taking a taurine supplement.