Taurine, a semi-essential amino acid found in most energy drinks, may extend life. Taurine is involved in various metabolic functions, including energy production and the synthesis of bile acids. While the human body produces taurine, it can also be obtained through food, with shellfish being a particularly rich source. Despite being primarily associated with energy drinks, taurine deficiency has been linked to organ dysfunction and diseases such as hypertension, kidney dysfunction, and obesity. As taurine levels decrease with age, an international team of scientists has investigated whether taurine intake can prolong life or improve health in humans.
The team conducted experiments on mice and small primates, with the former receiving an extremely high dose of taurine. Those mice that received this diet lived 10-12% longer than their normally-fed counterparts and showed improved health in middle age, with denser bones, a stronger immune response, stronger muscles, and reduced body fat. Taurine also had comparable positive effects on small primates, protecting them from typical age-related ailments. However, it is unclear whether these findings can be applied to humans. While a large health study found that participants with lower taurine levels were more likely to experience age-related ailments or obesity, the study only shows correlation and not causation.
Kristina Norman, head of the Department of Nutrition and Gerontology at the German Institute of Nutrition Research, warns against drawing hasty conclusions from the study. While the results offer practical tips, such as avoiding the use of supplements or energy drinks, the long-term effects of high taurine doses are still not fully understood. The study’s findings suggest that taurine may have potential health benefits, but further research is needed to determine its effectiveness in humans.
In conclusion, taurine, a semi-essential amino acid found in most energy drinks, may have potential health benefits, including extending life and improving health in middle age. While the study’s findings are promising, it is unclear whether they can be applied to humans, and further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of high taurine doses. The study’s practical tips include avoiding the use of supplements or energy drinks, and emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet rich in taurine-containing foods.
