What is L-Taurine?

Taurine is a EAA amino acid that's not as well known as some other aminos like glutamine; however, taurine plays an important role and is found in the heart muscle, white blood cells, central nervous system, and skeletal muscle. It plays an important role in metabolism, and is essential for new borns, since they cannot make it. Adults bodies can make taurine, however, when not enough is made, the deficiency can be corrected by supplementation.

Where does L-Taurine come from?

L-Taurine, found in eggs, fish, meat, and milk is a building block for all the other amino acids. Taurine is a key component in the production of bile, which is needed for the digestion of fats, the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and the support of healthy cholesterol levels. Taurine has been shown to play a particular role in sparing of potassium from the heart muscle, thereby promoting a healthy heart. L-Taurine provides support for neurotransmitters and has a protective effect on the brain. The benefits of L-Taurine are wide ranging and can be a productive part of a total supplement program.

Found in the nervous system and muscles, taurine is one of the most abundant amino acids in the body. It is thought to help regulate heartbeat, maintain cell membranes, and affect the release of neurotransmitters (chemicals that carry signals between nerve cells) in the brain.

Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?

For the bodybuilder taurine has several critical functions and can act similarly to creatine in that it expands your cells by helping the muscle cell itself hold more water, increasing cell volume. For a lifter or bodybuilder, this is significant because expanded muscle cells can boost hydration resulting in a higher rate of protein synthesis and bodybuilders will appreciate the increased appearance of muscle fullness.

There is no dietary requirement for taurine, since the body can make it out of vitamin B6 and the amino acids methionine and cysteine. Deficiencies occasionally occur in vegetarians, whose diets may not provide the building blocks for making taurine.

How much should be taken? Are there side effects?

As an amino acid found in food, taurine is thought to be quite safe. However, maximum safe dosages of taurine supplements for children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease have not been determined.

As with any supplement taken in multigram doses, it is important to purchase a reputable product.

Recent Studies

L-Taurine - Many studies are being conducted on L-Taurine that concern the following: Heart, Brain, Liver, Blood Flow and Cardiovascular Threshold. There are hundreds of studies at this time and most are still is process.