The scientists also looked at data relating to 12,000 European adults aged 60 and over, and found people with higher taurine levels were healthier, with fewer cases of type 2 diabetes, lower obesity levels and lower levels of inflammation. “This study suggests that taurine could be an elixir of life within us that helps us live longer and healthier lives.”

“Not only did we find that the animals lived longer, we also found that they’re living healthier lives,” said Vijay Yadav, the study leader and assistant professor of genetics and development at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. Bottles of taurine supplement capsules can be purchased for under £10 from some retailers.Īccording to findings published in the journal Science, a team of international researchers found a deficiency of taurine may drive the ageing process but supplements extended the healthy lifespans of middle-aged mice by between 10 and 12 per cent. It is thought to boost mental and athletic performance so it is added to some energy drinks, such as Red Bull and Monster, too. It is also contained in meat, fish and eggs, and can help support immune health, nervous system function and energy production. Taurine is an amino acid found naturally in some adult body tissues.

Taurine effects on body