Taurine
Taurine works to stabilize cell membranes and helps to move other nutrients including sodium, calcium, potassium, and magnesium into and out of the cells based on the need.
Taurine is an essential element in gall bladder health. Bile, which is made in the liver and stored in the gall bladder, is made of bile acids and bile salts. Taurine is a major component of the bile acids and helps to keep bile salts dissolved. When there is a deficiency of taurine there is less of the bile acid and so the salts are able to form stones. Gall stones are a sign that taurine levels may be low and should be evaluated. Supplementing with taurine may help prevent gall bladder surgery in those with chronic gall stones.
With so many areas of the body in need of taurine, keeping the levels up are essential in promoting health. Low levels can effect the brain, heart, immune system, liver, and gall bladder. Since it is found in meat, vegans are often found to have low levels, which supplementation can help.
CONSIDER SUPPLEMENTING WITH TAURINE
- Taurine works with glycine and GABA as a neurotransmitter. It has a calming effect on the nerve system.
- Strong epidemiological evidence suggests that certain groups with the longest life spans consume higher amounts of taurine than those of us in the rest of the world.
- Taurine supplementation can prevent diabetes and obesity in animal models, and can mitigate the effects of both conditions in humans.
- Taurine supplementation strengthens heart muscle cells, extends their life spans, and protects them from damage, while reducing many of the factors that produce atherosclerosis and its deadly consequences.
- Taurine protects retinal and inner ear cells from damage, normalizing the flow of calcium ions they require for proper function.
- Evidence is growing for taurine’s role in preventing epileptic seizures and liver disease, two conditions that can be attributed to toxic effects on delicate tissue.
- If you are interested in a longer, healthier, and more active life, consider supplementing with taurine.
Additional Information About Taurine
This amino acid supports neurological development and aids in the regulation of all water and minerals throughout the body. It can also have high antioxidant benefits in many people. It is naturally found in fish, breast milk, and meats, but is often supplemented in people who do not receive enough from their diet.
As a conditional amino acid, taurine is a natural chemical that is a building block of protein. High levels of this nutrient are present in the brain, heart, and blood cells. Taking taurine can be beneficial for many people including those who are supplementing other medications that treat congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, cystic fibrosis, and cholesterol. In these instances, it may improve heart failure because it works to lower blood pressure and calms the sympathetic nervous system. This system is a key component of the body that addresses high stress levels. Taking this supplement may also help with hepatitis, or liver disease, by improving liver function in individuals with this condition.