Taurine amino acid information

Taurine is a non-essential amino acid and is found in high concentrations in the white blood cells, skeletal muscles, central nervous system as well as the heart muscles. In adults, but not children, this nutrient can be manufactured from methionine in the body and from cysteine in the liver, but vitamin B6 must be present.

Required for

It is a key ingredient of bile, which in turn is needed for fat digestion, absorption of fat-soluble vitamins as well as the control of cholesterol serum levels in the body. (It is incorporated in the bile acid chenodeoxychloic acid, which emulsify the dietary fats).

This nutrient is also used in the proper use of potassium, calcium as well as sodium in the body, and for maintaining cell membrane integrity. It is though to be helpful with anxiety, hyperactivity, poor brain function and epilepsy as well as hydrating the brain. Taurine, together with zinc is also required for proper eye health and vision.

Deficiency indications

A deficiency may impair vision and problems with fat metabolism may appear, and a theory exists that it may also be involved in epilepsy developing.

Dosage

The dosage listed is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.

No dosage has been established, but people who take supplements normally take 2 grams, three times per day.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

No toxicity has been determined and most people would not require a supplement and even small children derive enough of it through human milk, or infant formulas.

Best used with

Vitamin B6 is required by the body to synthesize this nutrient from other nutrients.

When more may be required

Vegans who consume no eggs or dairy products ingest virtually no taurine through their diets, but normally have enough since the body can manufacture the requirements.

Children with Down's syndrome may benefit from taurine, as well as women being treated for breast cancer as well as people with metabolic disorders, since metabolic disorders can cause loss of this nutrient via urine.

Diabetics may also benefit from this nutrient, since this disease increase the need for this nutrient.

Enemy of nutrient

High intake of alcohol may cause the body not to be able to use it fully.

Taurine is found in food sources

Taurine is mostly found in meat and fish, and the adult body can manufacture it.

Nutritional information

Underneath we have information page on vitamins, minerals, amino acids, trace elements, enzymes and various nutritional compounds that can impact greatly on your general health, well-being and longevity. Please note that these pages are for general information only and must not be used to treat or diagnose health concerns.