Taurine is a compound found in the human body, as well as in algae, fungi, and bacteria. It aids in the digestion of fats, is essential for the development of the central nervous system and retina, and may act as an antioxidant. Taurine is present in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products, but is also produced synthetically for use in energy drinks and supplements. While energy drinks containing taurine tout many benefits, there are concerns about possible negative effects, particularly when taken in combination with alcohol. Evidence suggests doses of up to 0.1 ounces (3 g) per day are safe for healthy adults.
Taurine, also known as 2-aminoethanesulfonic acid, is a naturally occurring compound in the human body. It is found in high levels in skeletal and cardiac muscles, as well as white blood cells and the central nervous system. It is an essential component of bile and aids in the digestion of fats and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. 2-Aminoethanesulfonic acid is also found in algae, fungi and bacteria.
The name comes from the fact that the compound was first discovered in the bile of an ox, a kind of bull. The Latin word for bull is taurus. Although it is often described as an amino acid, it is not strictly correct, chemically speaking, but it does resemble these substances.
functions
The best understood function of taurine is in the formation of compounds in the bile that allow for the absorption of fats and oils. These compounds act as cleaners as they emulsify fats, so they can be broken down and processed. Some essential nutrients are fat soluble, so this also helps metabolize these substances.
Taurine is also essential for the development of the central nervous system and retina. For this reason, it is given as a supplement to premature babies, as they cannot yet produce this substance themselves. Some animals, such as domestic cats, are unable to produce it in adequate quantities and therefore must have it in their diet.
It appears that 2-aminoethanesulfonic acid may act as an antioxidant, helping to prevent cell and tissue damage caused by oxidation. For example, biochemical processes in the body produce hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as a byproduct. This chemical is a powerful oxidant that has the potential to damage cells. Taurine combines with it to produce a much less toxic compound, chloramine taurine, suggesting that one of its roles may be to remove this toxic chemical.
Possible benefits
In addition to its known functions in the body, many additional benefits have been claimed, although as of 2013, some of these have yet to be proven. It can reduce high blood pressure in adults and is being tested as a potential treatment for bipolar depression. Studies in mice showed that taking the supplements while on a high-fat diet prevented them from gaining weight. In other studies, diabetic rats lost weight and exhibited lower blood sugar levels.
There is evidence to suggest that this compound may help relieve symptoms associated with congestive heart failure (CHF), a condition that reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood around the body. Studies have also suggested that it improves liver function in people suffering from some forms of viral hepatitis. Many people may be familiar with this substance as a health supplement and is used in a variety of products. Bodybuilders take it as a supplement along with creatine, which can help reduce muscle fatigue and soreness.
Researchers from a well-known UK university say that taurine can counteract the effects of excessive consumption on the liver because it prevents the accumulation of fat in the organ. There is some concern, however, that this well-publicized finding could act as a disincentive for heavy drinkers to cut back on alcohol consumption. There seems to be a popular belief that taurine-rich energy drinks may be the perfect “morning after” treat after a night of heavy drinking.
sources
Taurine is present in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Because adult humans are able to manufacture the substance from other compounds that are in abundance, it is not normally considered an essential dietary requirement. Although a vegetarian diet is deficient in 2-aminoethanesulfonic acid, many meatless foods, such as nuts and some vegetables, contain the chemical building blocks from which it is made in the human body. The compound is also produced synthetically for use in energy drinks and supplements.
Energy drinks
Many energy drinks contain taurine as an ingredient. Their products tout many benefits, while others have expressed concern about possible negative effects, particularly when taken in combination with alcohol. The purported benefits of these drinks include increased energy, improved mental performance, and improved short-term memory. Possible adverse effects include dehydration and abnormal heart rhythms. Because these drinks usually also contain caffeine, it’s difficult to determine from tests whether the positive or negative effects they produce are due to the taurine, the caffeine, or a combination of both.
Possible side effects
Because this compound is found in both foods and the human body in relatively large quantities, it is thought to be unlikely to have any adverse effects. Evidence suggests doses of up to 0.1 ounces (3 g) per day are safe for healthy adults. It’s unclear, however, what the safe dosage would be for children, pregnant women, or people suffering from certain medical conditions.
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