Taurine is one of the best-known sulphurous amino acids, and can be composed in the body from Cysteine by synergistic action of vitamin B6. Plays an important role in the normal function of the brain, heart, gallbladder, of the eye and the vascular system.
Taurine is involved in many biological functions, acting as a neurotransmitter in the brain, as a stabilizer of cell membranes and as a mediator in the transfer of ions such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Taurine, after GABA, is the second in rank inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. The amino acids alanine, glutamic acid, and Pantothenic acid inhibit the metabolism of taurine, while vitamins a and B6, zinc and manganese contribute to the synthesis of taurine. The cysteine and vitamin B6 are ingredients that have a more direct relationship with the composition of taurine. Gall bladder uses the taurine for the formation of taurocholate acid, one of two bile acids needed to break down the fat in the small intestine. Taurine is also involved in excretion of cholesterol and bilirubin in the bile.
Important elements:
High consumption of alcohol increases the loss of taurine.
Low levels of taurine found in vegetarian and people who follow a diet low in dairy and meat products.
Is one of the main ingredients in popular energy drinks, despite the fact that there are insufficient data to link the consumption of taurine and energy production.
