Taurine is a conditionally essential amino acid. This means that most people do not need to obtain it from dietary sources, as the human body can make taurine on its own. It is "conditionally" essential because supplementation or dietary intake may be necessary in some circumstances (such as for formula-fed infants or people undergoing IV feedings). The amino acid is found in high amounts in meat and fish. It is also used in
dietary supplements and energy drinks, and is claimed to be useful for a variety of different conditions, such as
congestive heart failure (CHF), hepatitis,
cystic fibrosis, and
high blood pressure (
hypertension).
(Click Benefits of Taurine for more information on what it is used for, including additional uses.)
Taurine is an amino acid. For most people, the body can make more than enough of its own taurine, although this amino acid is also found in protein-rich foods. In addition to serving as a building block for making proteins, taurine may have several different roles in the human body. It plays a role in the photoreceptors in the function of the retina of the eye, blood platelet activity, sperm motility,
insulin activity, regulation of the nervous system, and the formation of bile.
There is some thought that it may also
lower blood pressure (by decreasing nervous system signals that increase
blood pressure), affect
calcium in the heart, and work as a diuretic (a water pill). All of these activities might be the reason why this amino acid may work for congestive
heart failure. It may also
lower cholesterol and serve as an antioxidant. Much research is currently underway to find out exactly how this amino acid works.
Taurine supplementation may be useful for treating
congestive heart failure (CHF) and hepatitis, but it is not known if it is effective for most other uses.
There are no clear guidelines for a safe and effective dose for most uses. Because taurine is not an essential amino acid, there is no Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for it. Make sure to follow the specific instructions on your particular product.
In general, taurine seems to be tolerated well by most people. Studies do not suggest that this amino acid causes significant side effects, especially when taken at reasonable doses.
(Click Taurine Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Some people may be more likely to experience problems when taking it. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking this amino acid if you:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click Safety of Taurine for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not known what exactly to expect from a taurine overdose. Because the kidneys remove excess taurine from the body, an overdose on this amino acid may be unlikely. If you think you may have taken too much taurine, seek medical attention immediately.
Storage Methods for Taurine
Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how best to store taurine. Keep this supplement and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
