Taurine
Taurine is a non-essential amino acid and is found in high concentrations in the white blood cells, skeletal muscles, central nervous system as well as the heart muscles. In adults, but not children, this nutrient can be manufactured from methionine in the body and from cysteine in the liver, but vitamin B6 must be present.
Taurine is a key ingredient of bile, which in turn is needed for fat digestion, absorption of fat-soluble vitamins as well as the control of cholesterol serum levels in the body. Taurine is also used in the proper use of potassium, calcium as well as sodium in the body, and for maintaining cell membrane integrity.
Taurine is thought to be helpful with anxiety, hyperactivity, poor brain function and epilepsy as well as hydrating the brain. Taurine, together with zinc is also required for proper eye health and vision.
Vitamin B6 is required by the body to synthesize this nutrient from other nutrients.
No dosage has been established, but people who take supplements normally take 2 grams, three times per day.
Taurine is mostly found in meat and fish, and the adult body can manufacture it.
