The US-based regenerative medicine doctor said the chemical plays a “vital” role in the body’s digestive, cardiovascular, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems
A doctor who researches living longer has shared the name of the supplement he takes daily to help slow down ageing.
Dr Neil Paulvin spoke about the benefits of taurine, an amino acid, on CNBC’s lifestyle site Make It.. The US-based regenerative medicine doctor said: “I’ve since noticed an improvement in my overall energy level, exercise performance and recovery time. Many people may not have heard of taurine, but there has been a growing body of research dedicated to uncovering its potential.”
He explained that humans can make their own taurine, which is stored in various parts of the body including the eyes, central nervous system and skeletal muscles. It’s also found in some foods like meat, fish, dairy and eggs. To boost your levels, Dr Paulvin suggests taking it as a supplement.
He listed six key benefits of doing so, including heart health. According to him, taurine has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. “It allows the body to balance electrolytes and improve lipids,” he added. “It aids with blood pressure regulation and supports blood vessel function, too, which helps maintain optimal blood flow and ultimately reduces the risk of hypertension, atherosclerosis (the hardening of arteries) and heart attacks.”
Taurine can help “energise” mitochondria, a key part of cells that are responsible for energy production, Dr Paulvin continued. “In biology class, you might have heard them referred to as the powerhouse of the cell. But as we age, mitochondrial dysfunction can contribute to fatigue and other age-related diseases. Taurine supplements can help protect these organelles from damage.”
Within the body stem cells aid tissue repair and regeneration, however, they become less productive with age. Dr Paulvin explained: “Studies have shown that taurine can help stimulate stem cell production, particularly neural stem cells, which can boost brain function, in addition to regenerating various tissues throughout the body.”
“Taurine functions as a cell volumizer, drawing water into muscle cells and creating a more favourable environment for muscle growth,” he said. “Taurine exhibits DNA-protective capabilities due to its ability to scavenge harmful free radicals, while supporting DNA repair mechanisms that can reduce the occurrence of genetic mutations and contributes to overall cellular health.”
The medic added: “One of the hallmarks of ageing is accumulated DNA damage, which can lead to mutations and an increased risk of cancer and other diseases. Taurine exhibits DNA-protective capabilities due to its ability to scavenge harmful free radicals, while supporting DNA repair mechanisms that can reduces the occurrence of genetic mutations and contributes to overall cellular health.”
Taurine can also lower blood pressure in more than one way.
“It promotes vasodilation – the relaxation and widening of blood vessels – which leads to improved blood flow and reduced pressure on arterial walls,” Dr Paulvin added. “Taurine has also been shown to inhibit the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can raise blood pressure.”
However, he warned that taurine supplements aren’t a “magic pill for longevity”. “One thing I always remind people is that while supplements can play a role in promoting health and longevity, they should be part of a comprehensive and holistic approach to wellness that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management and making healthy lifestyle choices,” he said.
He advised speaking to a doctor before taking taurine – or any new supplement.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
