Taurine

What does it do?

Taurine is an amino acid-like compound and a component of bile acids, which are used to help absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Taurine also helps regulate the heart beat, maintain cell membrane stability, and prevent brain cell over-activity.

Where is it found?

Taurine is found mostly in meat and fish. Except for infants, the human body is able to make taurine from cysteine—another amino acid.

Taurine has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating Health Concerns
3Stars

Congestive heart failure
2Stars

Cystic fibrosis

Iron-deficiency anemia

Liver support

Pre- and post-surgery health
1Star

Cardiomyopathy

Diabetes

Epilepsy

High blood pressure
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Most people, including vegans (vegetarians who eat no dairy or eggs), do not need taurine supplements. While infants require taurine, the amount in either human milk or formula is adequate. People with diabetes have been reported to have lower blood levels of taurine than non-diabetics.1

How much is usually taken?

For the treatment of various medical conditions, doctors typically recommend 1.5 grams to as much as 6 grams or more per day.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Taurine has not been reported to cause any severe adverse effects.

Are there any drug interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with taurine. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.

References

1. Franconi F, Bennardini F, Mattana A, et al. Plasma and platelet taurine are reduced in subjects with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus: effects of taurine supplementation. Am J Clin Nutr 1995;61:1115–9.