DNA is found in each cell’s chromosomes, which are protected by telomeres. Perhaps the most interesting is that it plays a role in preventing damage to the cells’ DNA, or genetic code. It combats the rate at which our cells age in a number of ways, the new study showed. But before you take things to extremes, like TikTok inevitably has by talking about 'weight loss' taurine IV drips and using taurine to detox from chlorine over-exposure, let’s look at the facts and figure out exactly if, and how, taurine could make you live longer and healthier. Basically, “upping the level of taurine in the body drastically reduces some of the hallmarks of cellular ageing, among other benefits,” says Rhian Stephenson, nutritional therapist, naturopath and founder of Artah nutrition. Ingesting taurine, says the paper, increases your cells’ energy and helps repair damaged DNA, among other things. In middle-aged mice, this increase was sometimes as much as 25 per cent. Despite the findings being based on its effect on mice and monkeys, not humans, TikTok has enthusiastically leaped onto these findings, which say supplementing with taurine increases the life span of mice by more than ten per cent. You’ll discover numerous supplement options containing taurine in our sports nutrition amino acids range.An active ingredient in energy drinks such as Red Bull (taurine, taurus, bull, geddit?), the nutrient taurine is trending because a new study, published in the acclaimed medical journal Science, implies it could help you live longer. 10 If you’re opting for a taurine supplement, make sure you follow the dosage instructions carefully on the back of the packet. Not to worry, though, as there’s always the option of taking a taurine supplement instead! Side effects of taurineįortunately, there are no known side effects of adding more taurine to your diet as long as you take it in the correct amounts. What’s more, energy drinks often contain lots of caffeine or sugar, which can be bad for the body. You will find that taurine is sometimes added to vegetarian substitute products or energy drinks, although not typically in high amounts. Unfortunately, almost all of them are unsuitable for vegans or vegetarians.

If you’re looking to boost your taurine count, there are many foods which contain this beneficial amino acid. It’s thought to help protect the retina from degeneration and may even have some success at reducing optic nerve damage.

You’ll find this type of amino acid in high amounts in the eyes. 6 When it comes to the heart, taurine can aid in lowering both blood pressure and cholesterol. It helps keep them functioning correctly, with studies showing that high taurine levels in the brain potentially reduce your likelihood of age-related neurological disorders. Taurine is present in both the brain and the heart. Being able to digest food efficiently into energy could potentially improve your overall metabolism.

4 For more information, read ' What is taurine and can it help with sports and exercise?'.Īs taurine is used to create bile salts, it plays a crucial role in healthy digestion. It’s also thought to protect the muscles from damage, allowing you to exercise for longer without experiencing muscle soreness. Taurine plays a vital role in regulating muscle function and may potentially lower your risk of muscle fatigue when you’re working out. Possible benefits of having extra taurine include 3: While you should be able to produce all the taurine you need by yourself, it might be necessary to add extra either through your diet or by taking a supplement.

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