Taurine as a dietary supplement

Taurine - well known from energy drinks

Taurine is an amino acid that the body produces itself. Taurine, derived from the Latin word "taurus" for bull, is a derivative of the sulphur-containing amino acid cysteine, which is considered semi-essential. The name is explained by the fact that it was first detected in the bile of a bull. As a free amino acid, L-taurine is mainly found in the heart, central nervous system, muscles and also in the eye. The good news is that our body produces this amino acid naturally and usually in sufficient quantities in healthy adults. It is therefore particularly popular as a supplement before or during very intense exercise.

Which natural sources provide taurine?

Taurine is found naturally in foods such as beef, fish, seafood, eggs and dairy products. It is also found in breast milk, which explains why it is often added to infant formula. Only a few plant sources, such as algae, contain taurine.

As part of a dietary supplement, taurine can be taken in various forms: as capsules, powder or energy drinks. It is of course important to adhere to the dosage indicated on the chosen preparation. This varies from person to person, especially in cases of deficiency and depending on the desired effect. Depending on this, the recommendations can vary from 300 mg to 3 g per day.