Taurine is an amino acid commonly found in energy drinks and one that researchers have been studying for decades for various reasons. Recent research is shedding light on its potential antiaging benefits.
The human body naturally produces taurine, particularly in the brain, heart, and reproductive organs. It is also present in meat, fish, and eggs. Athletes have long used taurine to boost energy and performance, and it is a part of some obesity treatments.
In a paper published in Science on June 8, researchers reported that taurine supplementation could slow aging in several animal species, including worms, mice, and monkeys. The study, extending over 11 years, first analyzed the blood of different species. The research team documented that taurine levels in the blood declined with age. The researchers then gave taurine supplements to older mice to restore taurine levels and found that they lived 10 to 12 percent longer than those not given the supplement. The mice also showed increased energy, increased bone density, improved memory, and a younger-looking immune system.
This research suggests that taurine may help some body systems function better and appear “younger.” In an earlier study involving 12,000 human participants, those with higher taurine levels typically exhibited better health markers, such as lower blood glucose, cholesterol, and inflammation levels. Based on the research, taurine may reduce cellular senescence – a hallmark of aging. It may also keep the mitochondria from functioning.
Though taurine levels in humans decline with age, they can increase through exercise. In an experiment, the research team had participants cycling on a stationary bike to exhaustion, upon which their taurine levels rose.
While these findings are promising, researchers caution against self-medicating with taurine supplements or energy drinks just yet. Any decision should wait until clinical trials can verify the potential benefits of taurine in humans.