WHAT IS TAURINE
Taurine was once considered a non-essential amino acid but is now termed a “conditionally essential” one. Taurine can be synthesized from methionine and cysteine with the help of vitamin B6. The real importance of taurine has only been recognized within the past 25 years.
One important note: Methionine, cysteine, homocysteine, and taurine are the 4 common sulfur-containing amino acids, but only the first 2 are incorporated into proteins.
BENEFITS OF TAURINE
Clinical research is showing a number of roles and functions:
- promotes intestinal absorption of fat
- increase regulation of water and electrolytes
- increase energy stores
- helps with skin pigmentation
- increase reproduction
- promotes glucose usage
- considered an antiarrythmic agent by promoting calcium influx
- increased protein synthesis thus aiding in repair of muscle and injury
- studies suggest even with short term use Taurine may support better physical function
- may lower the cardiovascular risks that can be present after exercising
- may improve issues associated with heart failure
- may reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
Although more studies must be conducted to confirm these benefits; the research already conducted is promising for anyone concerned with cardiac health or suffering from heart disease. Taurine may show benefit in reducing triglycerides, prevent obesity, improving insulin resistance, regulate glucose metabolism, lower cholesterol, and reduce blood pressure. It may also improve performance of the athletes. Scientists found strong evidence that a combination of taurine and caffeine may improve mood and possibly boost cognitive performance. Taurine has also shown to hasten degeneration of the cells of they eye and preserve vision for longer period of time.