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A doctor and longevity researcher has revealed the supplement he has taken daily for years to help slow the ageing process.
Sharing his story via CNBC, physician Doctor Neil Paulvin listed the benefits of taurine – a lesser known amino acid that he claims can help repair DNA and stimulate stem cell production.
The US-based regenerative medicine doctor said the chemical plays a “vital” role in the body’s digestive, cardiovascular, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems.
On CNBC’s lifestyle site Make It, he 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.”
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Taking a daily taurine supplement could help slow the ageing process, an expert said (Image: Getty Images)
Humans are able to make their own taurine and it is stored in various areas of the body including the eyes, central nervous system and skeletal muscles.
It is also found in some foods including meat, fish, dairy and eggs.
However, to boost your levels Dr Paulvin recommends taking it in the form of a supplement. He shared six key benefits of doing so.
Heart health
According to Dr Paulvin, taurine has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
“It 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.”
Taurine could prevent DNA damage, a key cause of ageing, Dr Paulvin said (Image: Getty)
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Energy production
Taurine can help “energise” mitochondria, a key part of cells that are responsible for energy production, Dr Paulvin stated.
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.”
Stem cell production
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 can be found in foods such as fish, meat and eggs (Image: Getty)
Muscle mass
Taurine could help increase muscle mass, the doctor claimed.
“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.”
Repairing DNA
DNA damage is one of the key factors that leads to ageing.
Dr Paulvin said: “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.”
Lowering blood pressure
Taurine is able to 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, the doctor 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.