According to a recent study that was published in the journal Nutrition, supplementing one's diet with the amino acid taurine might be a feasible solution to the aging problem.
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Study and Findings
Twenty-four female volunteers between the ages of 55 and 70 participated in the study at the University of Sao Paulo (USP). The participants were divided into two groups randomly. For 16 weeks, one group took three 500 mg taurine pills daily (1.5 g per day). The pills given to the opposing group only contained cornstarch (placebo).
Blood samples obtained before and after the research were examined for oxidative stress indicators. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), an antioxidant enzyme, was found to be nearly 20% higher in the taurine group. The placebo group, however, experienced a 3.5% decline. According to researchers, SOD shields cells from the damaging effects of free radical reactions. In general, antioxidants reduce oxidative stress and control free radicals.
Taurine Tested in Different Population
For more than ten years, Ellen de Freitas' team has investigated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of taurine, first in high-performance athletes and later in obese individuals.
The outcomes demonstrated that adding this amino acid to these people's diets allowed for the regulation of oxidative stress. Then the researchers made the choice to put the plan to the test in an aging population. They started with a very modest safety dose because this was so novel.
COVID-19 and Taurine
According to SciTechDaily, the COVID-19 pandemic derailed the study's original plan to examine the effects of taurine supplementation mixed with exercise so researchers decided to focus instead on the dietary component since they could still monitor it remotely.
The antioxidant enzyme glutathione reductase, which significantly declined in both groups, and malondialdehyde, which increased by 23% in the control group and dropped by 4% in the taurine group, were the two additional oxidative stress markers examined by the researchers.
These were modest gains, but according to Freitas' statement in Agencia FAPESP, she believes that stronger proof of taurine's advantages could come from a higher dose.
The amounts of minerals including selenium, zinc, magnesium, and calcium, which are crucial to the operation of these enzymes, were also examined in addition to signs of oxidative stress, according to Abud.
Selenium, a co-factor for glutathione peroxidase, which indirectly aids in the removal of hydrogen peroxide from the organism was decreased in both groups.
The addition of taurine, according to Freitas, is the icing on the anti-aging cake. However, maintaining a good diet and engaging in regular exercise are still necessary. Freitas added that for the anti-aging effect to take place a healthy lifestyle involving a balanced diet and frequent exercise is essential.
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Taurine Protects Brain from Aging
It has long been believed that once a person reaches adulthood, the production of new brain cells stops. Recent research debunks that. Any adult, regardless of age, has the capacity to grow new brain cells.
According to preclinical research, taurine increases neurogenesis, the process of creating new brain cells, which is essential for maintaining healthy brain function as we age. During brain development, neurogenesis refers to the growth, division, and maturation of brain cells. Nonetheless, neurogenesis continues even after development.
We need to keep our brain cells alive and functioning throughout our lives. The connections between those brain cells must also be safeguarded. These crucial connections are necessary for all of our brain activities, including those that regulate movement as well as higher-order cognitive abilities like speaking, learning, and memory.
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