Dietary Supplement: Taurine

    taurine is Amino acid that the body can make from methionine or cysteine. It is necessary for intestinal absorption of fats and for the maturation of the nervous system. It is found in large quantities in the brain. Retina and muscles. Breast milk contains it, and milk for babies is fortified with taurine, which is essential for their growth.

    European health authorities’ decision
    In 2012, European Health Authorities (EFSA, the European Food Safety Authority) and the European Commission voted on some health claims for products containing taurine. After reviewing scientific data, they considered that dietary supplements containing taurine could not Not Claim :

      • Help delay the onset of fatigue or maintain/increase physical performance;
      • improvement of physical and mental abilities under stress;
      • help protect cells from oxidative stress;
      • promoting the conversion of food into energy;
      • Support the immune system.
      • Promote the growth and health of children (as part of a vitamin mixture);
      • protect cells from toxinsRetinaheart, liver and blood vessels);
      • It helps the heart and muscles to relax.

    These claims about the effect are now prohibited for dietary supplements containing taurine.

    Presumed uses and properties of taurine

    Taurine is offered as part of a treatmentHeart failure Andhigh pressure. It is also used as a tonic, particularly in some so-called “energy” drinks.

    How effective is taurine?

    In animals with heart disease, taurine appears to enhance the capacity of the heart, but this effect has not been convincingly demonstrated in humans. In addition, taurine has no obvious effect onhigh pressure.

    Since it acts directly on brain cells, taurine is a stimulant, especially on cells that control movement.

    Precautions to Take with Taurine

    Excessive consumption of taurine can lead to serious consequences, especially in affected people epilepsy or disturbances Thyroid. It can also be at the root of disorders metabolism Calcium. In case of heart failure, taurine should be taken under medical supervision.

    In France drinks (Energy Drinks) Containing taurine has been banned since 1996, as there are still doubts about its safety. The most famous of these drinks was marketed in France in a version where taurine was replaced by arginine. In May 2008, the French government allowed the sale of the original version containing taurine.

    In the absence of studies on this topic, pregnant or breastfeeding women should refrain from taking taurine without medical advice.

    Taurine Forms and Dosage

    Taurine comes as a powder, capsule, or beverage, with caffeine, vitamins b and other anabolic substances. Suggested doses are usually 2 to 3 grams per day.

    Food sources of taurine

    Taurine is found in good amounts in meat, milk and dairy products, as well as in seaweed and shellfish.

    Turin expert opinion
    Contrary to misconception, vegetarians or vegans do not need to enrich their diet with taurine.
    European health authorities’ decision
    In 2012, European Health Authorities (EFSA, the European Food Safety Authority) and the European Commission voted on some health claims for products containing taurine. After reviewing scientific data, they considered that dietary supplements containing taurine could not Not Claim :

      • Help delay the onset of fatigue or maintain/increase physical performance;
      • improvement of physical and mental abilities under stress;
      • help protect cells from oxidative stress;
      • promoting the conversion of food into energy;
      • Support the immune system.
      • Promote the growth and health of children (as part of a vitamin mixture);
      • protect cells from toxinsRetinaheart, liver and blood vessels);
      • It helps the heart and muscles to relax.

    These claims about the effect are now prohibited for dietary supplements containing taurine.
    Turin expert opinion
    Contrary to misconception, vegetarians or vegans do not need to enrich their diet with taurine.