Taurine
WHAT IS TAURINE?
Taurine is a sulphurous amino acid that plays an important role in the human body. Unlike other amino acids, taurine is not incorporated into proteins, but fulfills various physiological functions. It is particularly important for the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system, the brain, the retina and the skeletal muscles. The body can synthesize taurine from the amino acids cysteine and methionine, but it is also obtained from the diet, especially from protein-rich foods such as meat and fish. Taurine is considered conditionally essential, meaning that under certain conditions the body may not be able to produce enough taurine to meet demand.
SOURCES OF TAURINE
Taurine occurs naturally in high concentrations in meat and fish, especially in shellfish such as scallops and mussels. Since taurine is found in animal-based foods, it is often produced synthetically for people who follow a vegan diet. This synthetic production ensures consistent quality and purity, making it suitable for vegan diets.
HOW DOES TAURINE WORK?
Taurine supports various normal bodily functions. It helps to stabilize cell membranes and regulate cell volume. It also plays a role in maintaining calcium homeostasis, which is important for normal cell function. Taurine also has an antioxidant effect by regulating antioxidant enzymes and reducing oxidative stress in cells.
TAURINE AND AGING
It is known that the body's production of taurine can vary throughout life. A balanced diet rich in taurine sources such as meat and fish can help maintain taurine levels in the body. For certain groups of people, such as the elderly, the intake of taurine from food can play an important role in supporting normal bodily functions.
POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS
Taurine supports the normal functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Studies suggest that taurine can help maintain normal cognitive function by supporting cell membrane stability and calcium regulation in the brain. It also has antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from oxidative stress. According to recent studies, taurine may contribute to healthy aging by promoting cognitive function and could protect against neurodegenerative diseases. As a powerful antioxidant, taurine can protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which is associated with cognitive decline. In addition, taurine may help stabilize brain cell membranes and regulate calcium homeostasis, both of which are important factors in maintaining cognitive function in old age. Some studies suggest that taurine may also support healthy cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health, which also contributes to overall well-being. However, these benefits should be considered potential and further studies are needed to confirm these effects.
TAURINE AND LONGEVITY
In 2023, a high-profile study was published showing that taurine deficiency can accelerate the aging process. In mice, taurine supplementation extended lifespan by 10-12% and improved the health of mice, monkeys, and worms. Supplementation improved organ function, reduced cellular aging, and mitigated age-related DNA damage and inflammation. However, until these effects are confirmed by relevant human studies, taurine's potential as an anti-aging therapy remains speculative.
ABOUT THE INGREDIENT
After extensive analysis, we decided to use synthetically produced taurine for ASPRIVA® Smile because it was the only way we could ensure that our end product would be suitable for a vegan diet while maintaining the highest purity of the active ingredients.
