Is Taurine Bad For You?

Taurine supplements are often times used to help improve physical and mental performance. It is an amino acid, which is a building block that is used to form many different types of proteins in the human body. It is already naturally present in your body and can also be found in breast milk. It was discovered in the bile of a bull in the early 1800s by German scientists Frederich Tiedemann and Leopold Gmelin. Its name originates from the Latin word Taurus which means bull. Synthetically produced taurine can be found in many energy drinks and supplements on the market. There have been many myths in our popular culture that claim taurine is a compound found in bull testicles, however historically there has been nothing to support that claim.
While most studies have shown that there are nothing but positive side effects associated with the use of taurine, especially when combined with caffeine, there has only been one study that in which harmful side effects from its use was revealed. According to an article in the Oxford Journal, the study showed a build-up of taurine in their system of people who were suffering from kidney failure. In any normal circumstance however, the kidneys would rid the body of any excess amounts. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, the body is unable to get rid of any excess fluids the body does not need. Patients in the study complained of being dizzy, however those symptoms went away after they stopped receiving drinks containing the supplement. However, in most cases the average person is generally not dealing with kidney failure.
The Journal of American Pharmacists Association addresses the safety of energy drinks including taurine. Their findings were that the amount of taurine found in energy drinks is neither harmful nor helpful. Also, Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., an expert consultant in diet and nutrition for the Mayo Clinic, states that there have been numerous studies that show improved mental and physical performance with its use. She recommended a maximum daily intake of 3000 mg stating that there have been no studies done on the supplement when taken in large amounts for long periods of time.
While the benefits of taurine are well researched and well documented, studies have shown very little evidence that it is actually bad for you or has any detrimental long-lasting side effects. It is pretty safe to say that if your kidneys are healthy and functioning properly, taurine is not bad for you and may actually be of some benefit. To find out more about Taurine and how it can help you Click Here
Edward Rosenberg is a professional health and nutrition expert. He has studied and researched dozens of various products over the past 4 years. For complete in-depth research about Taurine and how it can help you Click Here


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