Looking for a dietary supplement that will pack a powerful punch? Taurine may be just what you’re looking for.
Once upon a time, taurine was primarily used in energy drinks for its ability to naturally boost energy levels.
More recently, taurine has gained broader popularity as a dietary supplement that does more than just boost energy.
First…What is Taurine?
Taurine belongs to a family of compounds known as “amino sulfonic acids”, which simply means that taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid.
Like other amino acids, taurine can be found in protein-rich foods like meat, fish, and eggs. But it can also be taken as a supplement.
Even though taurine is often associated with energy drinks, it doesn’t provide an energy boost all on its own. Rather, taurine is inherent to numerous physiological functions that involve energy production. In other words, while taurine is involved in processes having to do with energy production, it is not in and of itself a stimulant.
Which begs the question: what else can taurine do for you and your health?
Taurine As an Antioxidant
Many chronic and acute illnesses that are often associated with aging are caused by oxidative stress, and its toxic byproduct: free radicals. Taurine helps to neutralize free radicals so they can’t damage healthy cells.
Taurine and Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular disease kills approximately one American every 33 seconds. This adds up to almost 700,000 people per year.
Recent studies have shown that taurine helps to combat cardiovascular disease in several ways:
- Taurine is a vasodilator. This means it helps to increase blood vessel size, thereby reducing blood pressure.
- Taurine reduces inflammation within the heart.
- Taurine may help to reduce damage caused by LDL cholesterol.
- Taurine reduces the effects of diabetes-related oxidative stress and slows the progression of diabetes-related complications.
Taurine and Brain Health
Taurine’s antioxidant properties help to protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals. This means better brain health and better cognitive function.
Taurine and Your Immune System
Taurine helps to support your immune system by controlling cytokine activity. Cytokines are proteins that alert your immune system to the presence of invasive agents. Your immune system’s response to these invasive agents is controlled by how many cytokines your immune system produces. Taurine’s ability to modulate cytokine production helps to keep cytokine levels from getting out of control.
Is Taurine Right for You?
As part of your treatment regimen with Renew Youth, we can provide suggestions around what supplements—such as taurine—might be beneficial for you.
To learn more about how dietary supplements can augment your hormone replacement therapy, contact Renew Youth at 800-859-7511 or use our contact form to set up your free 30-minute consultation.