A nutrient found in meat and fish could be an "elixir of life".
A nutrient found in meat could extend life
Scientists say that taurine extends lifespan and boosts health in a range of animal species.
Experiments conducted on middle-aged animals showed that a taurine boost extended life by over 10 per cent and improve both physical and brain health.
However, tests have not been carried out on people and the team at Columbia University in New York recommends against buying taurine supplements in an attempt to live longer.
A daily dose of taurine was given to 14-month-old mice, the equivalent to the age of 45 in humans, and the data showed the male mice lived 10 per cent longer while females had a 12 per cent life extension.
Researcher Dr. Vijay Yadav said: "Whatever we checked, taurine-supplemented mice were healthier and appeared younger.
"They were leaner, had an increased energy expenditure, increased bone density, improved memory and a younger-looking immune system."