Taurine, a supplement in energy drinks can prolong lives

Taurine, an energy drink supplement make animals to live longer according to a scientific study It is a naturally occurring amino acid that is not involved in protein synthesis but is regarded as an essential amino acid useful for physiological functions of the body. It has strategic importance in the cardiovascular, nervous, musculoskeletal and endocrine systems.

Although several factors are known to influence aging, the Science Journal publication showed that aging mice, worms and monkeys fed with large amount of taurine lived longer. It is unclear if this effect can be replicated in humans. However, as an essential amino acid in humans, it is required for normal body functioning. Apart from the fact that the body can produce the amino acid, it is also present in foods such as meat and fish products. However, as individuals age, the concentration of taurine declines and has been linked to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, infertility, renal disease and a number of other conditions.

The study further shows that ageing mice which received daily portions of taurine had increased lifespan by about 12% in females and 10% in males than those that did not receive extra taurine treatment. Treated mice had increased strength and reduction in anxiety as well as depression. Worms and monkeys which also received taurine supplements according to the study lived longer and healthier than the un-supplemented groups.  This is a milestone which has prompted a new search that could slow down the ageing process in humans and also make humans healthier through the exploitation of taurine as an anti-aging option. Current research is now focused on multidimensional trials in humans and if proven effective will be a major scientific breakthrough.

Taurine is regarded as a safe component of energy drinks, but the presence of other components like sugar and caffeine may require proper health assessment before consumptions. Adult with no underlying health conditions may tolerate energy drinks more than those with underlying health conditions.

It was previously shown that there is a relationship between exercise and the levels of taurine in the blood. Exercise was shown to increase the levels of taurine in the blood, authenticating the importance of exercise and raising hopes for its anti-aging potentials in humans. As scientists are racing to determine if the anti-aging effects seen in mice, monkeys and worm could be replicated in humans, a wait for relevant data is highly advocated before trying to boost your taurine levels.