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Taurine Could Help Treat Alzheimer's

Alissa Sauer
By Alissa SauerDecember 25, 2014

A recent study from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology concluded that an amino acid found in fish, meat and breast milk can help treat Alzheimer’s disease. Learn more about taurine and it’s effects on Alzheimer’s.

What is Taurine?

Taurine is an amino acid available through supplements and is commonly found in energy drinks. According to the Mayo Clinic, taurine is naturally found in fish, meat and breast milk.

Taurine is thought to support cognitive development and to have antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that taurine can have also have a positive impact on cardiac health, brain health and athletic performance.

However, researchers caution that because little is known about the long term use of taurine, moderation is important.

The Effects of Taurine on Alzheimer’s

A recent study from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) concluded that taurine may be an effective way to treat Alzheimer’s.

Researchers fed mice who had the disease 30 mg of taurine daily for six weeks, then evaluated their cognitive functions for three months. The research team discovered that the mice who were given taurine regained normal cognitive functions, and CT scans of their brains showed that the taurine blocked beta amyloid plaques from forming, which are a hallmark characteristic of Alzheimer’s. Lead researcher, Dr. Young Soo Kim, said that:

“Drug development based on taurine would lead to safe and effective medicine.”

The team hopes to begin drug development soon although more studies and clinical trials are also needed.

Taurine and the Future of Alzheimer’s

This most recent study follows previous research that support the conclusion that taurine may be an effective way to treat Alzheimer’s. One particular study showed that fruit flies given taurine had an improved learning ability.

Despite positive outcomes in studies, taurine has not been successful in treating the disease in people thus far. In the past it has failed as a drug treatment option and is now only sold as a dietary supplement.

Have you heard any more information about the effects of taurine on brain health and cognition? Share your thoughts on taurine and its connection to Alzheimer’s with us in the comments below.

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Alissa Sauer
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Alissa Sauer

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