Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is found naturally in the human body and in certain foods. Unlike other amino acids, it does not participate in the construction of proteins. Its presence is notable in several organs, particularly the heart , brain , muscles and eyes . Taurine is distinguished by its chemical structure which, although related to that of classic amino acids, has unique characteristics .
It takes its name from the Latin " taurus ", meaning " bull ", because it was first discovered in the bile of this animal at the beginning of the 19th century . Today, beyond its presence in the body and foods , taurine is also produced industrially for various applications.
Taurine has many benefits!
This amino acid plays an essential role in several biological functions of the body. To take full advantage of the benefits of taurine, numerous scientific studies have been carried out to determine its positive effects on health:
- Modulation of neuronal excitability and calcium regulation : Taurine helps regulate the activity of neurons and the level of calcium in cells , which ensures the stability of cell walls. This action is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the overall health of cells. ( 1 )
- Improved cognitive function : It may also help strengthen memory and concentration by regulating certain brain mechanisms and reducing nerve inflammation. Studies have found that it works by optimizing the function of certain transporters and receptors in the brain, including GABA A receptors. ( 2 )
- Cholesterol Reduction : Taurine has been shown to be effective in reducing plasma and liver cholesterol concentrations , particularly by decreasing VLDL and LDL levels in animals suffering from hypercholesterolemia. ( 3 )
- Cardiovascular benefits : It has been linked to beneficial actions in various cardiovascular diseases , including congestive heart failure, hypertension, ischemic heart disease (insufficient oxygen intake), and atherosclerosis (fatty plaques in the arteries) . ( 4 )
- Protection against diabetes : Identified as a potential agent for the prevention of diabetes and its complications, it strengthens insulin sensitivity , regulates glucose metabolism and protects the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas against stress, promoting a optimal regulation of blood sugar. ( 5 )
- Antioxidant effects : It is also recognized for its antioxidant properties . It protects cells from damage caused by free radicals , which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease. By neutralizing them, taurine helps prevent oxidative stress , a major factor in many chronic diseases. ( 6 )
- Supporting eye health : Taurine is present in large quantities in the retina, and it plays a crucial role in protecting eye health . It prevents the degeneration of photoreceptor cells (cells that detect light and convert it into electrical signals) and protects the retina against damage caused by ultraviolet light. Studies have shown that taurine deficiency can lead to vision problems and retinal degeneration. ( 7 )
- Improved sports performance : It is often used as an ingredient in energy drinks due to its beneficial effects on physical performance. It improves endurance , reduces muscle fatigue and speeds up recovery after exercise. It works by increasing the ability of muscles to contract and produce force, while reducing muscle damage caused by exercise. ( 8 )
Many people are turning to dietary supplements to fully benefit from the multiple benefits of taurine. These supplements, available in various forms (capsules, powders or drinks) , offer a concentrated dose of taurine, making it easy to integrate this essential amino acid into the daily routine.
Caution : Consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation to ensure the appropriate dose and avoid possible complications.