Taurineplays many important roles in the human body, including support for thecentral nervous systemand providing immune health.
It is also involved in the formation of bile salts that aid digestion andlipidabsorption.
It is also added as an ingredient to energy drinks.
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That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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How Does Taurine Function in the Body?
Taurine is synthsized from the antioxidantmethionineand the amino acid cysteine in the presence of vitamin B6.
It is also considered important to immune health due to its antioxidant properties.
It’s also often used to enhance stamina in sports nutrition.
Because the body makes taurine, deficiency is rare.
However, aging and different health conditions can reduce our bodys ability to make taurine.
Studies have evaluated dosages from 1 gram to 6 grams per day.
Uses of Taurine and Health Benefits
There are many claims surrounding the health benefits of taurine.
However, much of the research has been conducted in animal or lab models.
Some human research evaluates the use of taurine with other ingredients, such as caffeine.
Longer, higher-quality research studies are needed.
Below are some of the areas of research around taurine.
Keep in mind that no supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Some individuals in the studies also supplemented with taurine regularly.
Taurine is thought to lower blood pressure through vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels in the body).
Larger studies, however, are needed to confirm any heart health benefits of taurine.
Other Purported Benefits
Taurine has been studied for other alleged benefits, as well.
However, these studies have been preliminary, using either lab or animal models.
More research is needed to determine taurine’s effects in humans for these purposes.
However, the long-term effects are unknown.
Taurine supplementation can increase the blood pressurelowering effects of these drugs.
This can cause your kidneys to work harder.
How much taurine you take will depend on what you are using it for.
Supplementation may be needed when under stress or with certain health conditions.
It has been suggested that the bioavailability is higher when taurine is ingested on an empty stomach.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Taurine?
To date, there is no established tolerable upper intake for taurine.
Still, it is suggested that more research be done on the higher dosage amounts of taurine administration.
It’s important to note that these and other potential taurine interactions are not well-documented.
How to Store Taurine Supplements
Always read labels for storage instructions.
Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.
Supplements like taurine should be discarded after one year or as indicated on the packaging.
If you do not eat meat, fish, or dairy, you may not meet your taurine needs.
Fish and certain types of seaweed also contain taurine.
The highest amounts, greater than 1,000 milligrams, are in energy drinks.
Usually, they are free of animal products, but its always good to read labels.
They each have a different function and purpose.
Taurine has been studied for its use in heart disease, exercise performance, and other health purposes.
Still, more research is needed before taurine supplementation can be recommended for these health benefits.
Aging, illness, and stress can reduce the amount of taurine in our bodies.
Mostly, you’re able to get enough taurine through food sources, such as meat and seafood.
In rare cases, supplementation may be needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Taurine is in the cells of the body and serves many functions.
Taurine is used in energy drinks for its potential to increase mental and physical performance and recovery.
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