Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid produced in the body from the amino acids methionine and cysteine. It helps regulate the functioning of the nervous system and muscles and plays an important role in maintaining good brain and heart health.
The measurement of taurine, along with 23 other amino acids, is included in the Amino Acids in Plasma and the Amino Acids in Urine tests.
Taurine (Tau) helps transport potassium, magnesium, and sodium across cell membranes, three components essential for brain and heart function. Taurine is known to provide neurotransmitter support and have a protective effect on the brain. Some studies have shown that L-taurine supplementation can help strengthen the myocardium, thus helping regulate blood pressure and prevent heart failure and arrhythmias.
Because taurine is vital in muscle maintenance, supplementation may benefit athletes. One study showed that taurine deficiency decreases nitric oxide production, which reduces blood (and oxygen) flow to the muscles.
Taurine is also essential for the body's fat metabolism. It is a necessary component of bile to absorb fat-soluble vitamins and regulate serum cholesterol levels. It may also be involved in the regulation of insulin in the body. Taurine appears to provide the body with antioxidant protection, as some studies have shown that it protects the eyes by reducing oxidative damage caused by sunlight and stimulates the immune system. Taurine has also been suggested as a potential treatment for epilepsy, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, alcoholism, cystic fibrosis, and Alzheimer's disease.
Taurine is found in eggs, fish, meat, and milk. There is no official recommended daily intake amount for taurine. Adults can produce taurine, but newborns must obtain it from external sources because they cannot synthesize it independently.
