Taurine is a semi-essential amino acid whose levels decline significantly with age. Landmark animal studies show that restoring taurine to youthful levels extends lifespan and healthspan by mitigating key aging hallmarks like cellular senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, and DNA damage. While human observational data links higher taurine levels to better health, intervention trials confirming these longevity benefits in humans are still needed.
Verdict
Promising based on animal data; a low-cost, high-safety experimental intervention.
HEALTHSPAN IMPACT
Moderate
RISK LEVEL
Low
EVIDENCE GRADE
C
MONTHLY COST
$5 - $20
Protocol
- Daily supplementation of 1.5 to 3 grams, often taken with a meal.
- Higher doses up to 6 grams daily have been used in some clinical studies.
Flags
- The dramatic lifespan effects seen in animals have not yet been confirmed in humans.
- May have an additive effect with blood pressure-lowering medications.
- Individuals with bipolar disorder should consult a doctor due to potential lithium interactions.