Mental health, Taurine - Information and benefits
Mental Health > supplements-vitamins : Taurine
Taurine [TAW-reen]
Summary
Taurine is considered a non-essential amino acid because the body can make it. Like cysteine and methionine, taurine contains sulfur and is an important antioxidant. Taurine has been used in cardiovascular disease to lower blood pressure and to improve the strength of contraction of the heart muscle in congestive heart failure. Those with diabetes have been found to have low levels of taurine. Restoring these levels helps protect them against heart disease.
Taurine helps slow overactive cells in the brain and may be useful in epilepsy. It is important in the production of bile and may help prevent gallstones. Taurine may also help the liver detoxify chemicals and other toxins. Side effects and toxicity have not been noted. A taurine deficiency rarely occurs because the body can make it from other amino acids. If it does occur, arrhythmias or an irregular heart beat may be noed.
Infants cannot make enough taurine but it is found in breast milk and most infant formulas. Even vegans, who ingest no taurine, can generally make enough to meet the body's needs. If taurine is supplemented, the dose is 500 - 1000 milligrams two to three times a day. A total daily dose may be as high as 6 grams. Taurine is found in protein rich food, especially meat and fish. It is also found in eggs and dairy products.
What does taurine do for you?
Taurine may help lower your blood pressure. Taurine may make your heart contractions stronger, which is a benefit if you or a loved one have congestive heart failure. In addition, taurine may protect you from developing gallstones.
Where does taurine originate?
Taurine is an amino acid, a part of protein. If you eat high-protein foods such as meat and fish or eggs and dairy products you'll get taurine.
How does taurine work?
Taurine contains sulfur and works as an antioxidant to get rid of toxins in your body and strengthen your heart.
Who can take taurine?
If you or a loved one have epilepsy, you may want to take taurine. If you have diabetes you may have low levels of taurine in your body and that might put you at greater risk of heart disease. Taking taurine may lower that risk.
When should you not take taurine?
You shouldn't have to worry about taurine since there are no reports of side effects from taking a taurine dietary supplement.
What is the recommended taurine dosage?
There is no Recommended Dietary Allowance for taurine. If you wish to use taurine, try 500 to 1,000 milligrams a day taken in 2 or 3 dosages. You can take as much as 6 grams total a day.
Did you know that:
Infants' bodies can't make enough taurine, but will get it from breast milk or most formulas.