Taurine has been getting a lot of attention since a medical expert referred to it as “an elixir of life”. New research found that it may slow the aging process and extend longevity in healthy individuals. But is it all it’s cracked up to be? Read on to find out.
What is Taurine?
Taurine is an amino acid produced by the body. It is abundant in breast milk. It is beneficial to infants, young children, and adults.
The health food ingredient offers several benefits. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports immunity, digestion, neurological function and development, energy production, muscle, and nerve coordination, and more.
Taurine also helps the body process bile and balance fluids, salt, and minerals. It is used for cell activity including energy production.
Taurine Sources
Vegans may be disappointed to find out that taurine is rarely found in plant-based food. However, it can be found in nori, the seaweed used to make sushi. You can also take it in supplemental form although supplement benefits are still under review.
Taurine is also found in meat products like beef chicken, salami, turkey, veal, and ham. It is plentiful in seafood like scallops, mussels, clams, shrimp, tuna, and octopus. Dairy products like ice cream, yogurt, and pasteurized milk have low taurine content.
You can also find taurine in a variety of energy drinks and bars.
Although the body creates taurine, the amount it produces diminishes as you age. That’s why it’s important to include taurine in your diet.
What the Experts are Saying
Studies have backed taurine’s benefits. A 2008 study published in Experimental & Clinical Cardiology showed that it can improve heart health in people with chronic heart failure. It may also reduce blood pressure in individuals with high blood pressure.
Research also suggests that it can improve athletic performance, reduce muscle cramps, and boost cardiovascular health.
Is Taurine Safe?
There is little information regarding how much taurine should be taken per day. A 2019 study showed that doses up to 3 grams daily did not produce adverse effects.
Taurine may interfere with certain medications. Speak to a healthcare professional if you are taking medications and are considering adding taurine to your diet.
There is some danger involved in consuming taurine in energy drinks and bars as many of these items are high in sugar and caffeine. They have been known to make people feel tense and nervous. They can also cause dehydration and insomnia.
Final Thoughts
Taurine produces several benefits in the body. While it can be a part of a healthy diet, more research is needed to determine dosage limits. People should also beware when consuming energy drinks that may contain harmful ingredients.
How will you be including taurine in your diet?
