Taurine Dangers

Taurine or l-taurine is generally referred as a non-essential or semi-essential amino acid, for the fact that human body has the ability to synthesize this organic acid. However, infants cannot make taurine, but it is present in breast milk. It has been found that the breastfed infants have better taurine levels than their formula-fed counterparts. Therefore, it is added to some infant formulas. It plays a vital role in the functioning of the nervous and the musculoskeletal system, and is a major constituent of bile.

Though it is often mentioned as an amino acid, it does not contain a carboxyl group, unlike other amino acids. It is actually a derivative of the amino acid cysteine, which contains sulfur. Therefore, it is many times mentioned as sulfur containing amino acid and amino sulfonic acid. It was first isolated from the bile of ox. Today, it is better known as an essential ingredient in many energy drinks. It is also available as supplements, which are used by a large number of athletes and body builders to increase their level of energy and muscle mass. With increasing use of its supplements, many questions have been raised about its safety and effectiveness.

Taurine Benefits

It plays many vital roles inside our body. It is an important compound that ensures smooth functioning of the skeletal muscles, and aids neurological development. It is also thought to have antioxidant properties and detoxifying effects. It takes part in the metabolism of bile acids. Being a component of bile acid, it facilitate digestion of fats. Animal studies have revealed that it can remove fatty liver deposits in rats, which in turn, can prevent liver disease and cirrhosis. It is also beneficial for controlling the level of blood pressure. Even people with atherosclerosis, edema, cardiovascular and heart disease can benefit from taurine. It is very important for the heart muscles, and may prove effective for stabilizing the heart rhythm and lowering the level of serum cholesterol. Apart from these, this organic acid helps to regulate the level of water and mineral salts in the body, and strengthen the immune system.

Taurine Risks

It can be produced by our body, and it is also abundantly found in foods like, meat, seafood, fish and eggs. As long as we consume a sufficient amount of these foods, there is no need to supplement the body with this amino acid. However, vegetarians might experience a deficiency of this organic acid, as it is not found in plant foods. So, supplementation can be required at times. Excessive intake of supplements is usually not considered as good for health. As far as dangers of its supplement is concerned, no significant side effects have been reported by studies and researches conducted in this regard.

Generally, if supplemental taurine does not exceed the value of 3,000 mg, it is considered as safe for both children and adults. If it is taken in excess amount, it is excreted through the urine. Till now, not much is known about its dangers, especially in case of its prolonged and excessive use. However, some people have expressed their concern about the overuse of synthetic taurine, and studies conducted in this regard have reported that synthetic taurine may have an association with diseases like, high blood pressure, stroke and seizures. Moreover, one case of encephalopathy has been reported in a body builder, who took its large dose along with insulin and steroid. However, it is not clear, whether this adverse effect on the brain was caused by taurine or the other medications.

The effects of taurine supplementation on pregnant and breastfeeding women are not known accurately. So, they should better stay away from this supplements, in order to avoid its side effects. Even other people including athletes and body builders need to use taurine containing products and taurine supplements only in moderation. To avoid the possible dangers of this amino acid, be sure to consult your physician prior to taking its supplements. Another important point is to buy taurine supplements only from a reputed manufacturer. Lastly, it is always better to rely on a healthy diet to get all the essential nutrients, required for maintaining your health and vigor than supplements.