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TAURINE
Physiology
and Clinical Effects
Taurine is an amino acid (protein building block), as well as a component
of bile acids, which are used to help absorb fats and fat-soluble
vitamins. Taurine also regulates heart beat, maintains cell membrane
stability, and helps prevent brain cell overactivity.
Food
Sources
Taurine is found mostly in meat and fish. Except for infants, the human
body is able to make taurine from methionine—another amino acid.
Deficiency
Risk and Symptoms
Vegans (vegetarians who eat no dairy or eggs) consume virtually no taurine
but usually make enough to avoid deficiency. Infants do not make enough,
but taurine is found in human milk and most infant formulas. Diabetics
have been reported to have lower blood levels of taurine.1
Recommended
Dosage
Most people, even vegans, do not need taurine supplements. While infants
do require taurine, the level in either human milk or formula is adequate.
In dealing with people suffering from specific conditions, doctors
typically recommend 2 grams TID for a total of 6 grams per day.
Contraindications
Taurine has not been consistently linked with any toxicity.
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.
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