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):
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.