Taurine, an amino acid found in meat and seafood, is a popular supplement added to energy drinks that is touted to promote sharper brain function. While those claims are unproven, new research suggests that the nutrient may support healthy aging.
Low taurine levels can speed up the aging process in various animal species. Now, scientists say that consuming foods or supplements with this nutrient can slow that process, leading to longer, healthier lives in animals, and perhaps humans as well, an international group of researchers reported Thursday in the academic journal Science.
“This is a really exciting time,” said study co-author Vijay Yadav, an assistant professor of genetics and development at Columbia University School of Medicine in New York City.
That’s because researchers are now exploring specific molecules, such as taurine, that could improve health and extend life, Yadav said.
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