A doctor has said he takes a daily supplement of a common but lesser-known non-protein amino acid he hopes will slow the process of aging. Dr Neil Paulvin has been taking taurine
One doctor has revealed he takes one supplement every day to try and slow the effects of ageing.
The lesser-known taurine was cited by Dr Neil Paulvin as something that has made him feel an “improvement” in his life since he began taking it. “I’ve since noticed an improvement in my overall energy level, exercise performance and recovery time,” he told the US news outlet CNBC. “Many people may not have heard of taurine, but there has been a growing body of research dedicated to uncovering its potential.”
Paulvin continued, adding taurine “allows the body to balance electrolytes and improve lipids”. He said: “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.”
Taurne is found in a range of foods including eggs, dairy and fish. It is also present in some meat products. Humans also make their own taurine and it can be found stored in different parts of the body, including the central nervous system. Paulvin said the amino acid can “energise” mitochondria. He said: “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.”
Dr Paulvin explained that some studies shown that taurine can help stimulate stem cell production. This includes neural stem cells “which can boost brain function, in addition to regenerating various tissues throughout the body.” Further effects could be that taurine works as a “cell volumiser” and can draw “water into muscle cells and creating a more favourable environment for muscle growth.”
Dr Paulvin also said that DNA damage over time is one of the signs of ageing. This can lead to a heightened risk of cancer and other diseases. He said: “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.”
Lower blood pressure may also be a benefit, but it is important for people to maintain a healthy lifestyle regardless of their taurine intake, Dr Paulvin himself said Taurine supplements are not a “magic pill for longevity”. If you are thinking about taking taurine supplements, it is best to consult with your GP first.