Tachycardia is a form of arrhythmia during which the heart beats very fast. It may occur when there is a problem in the electrical impulses that signal the heart to contract and expand. Weak heart muscles, overactive thyroid gland, abnormal blood potassium levels and certain drugs may increase the risk of tachycardia, which is often associated with chest pain, palpitations, dizziness and shortness of breath. Treatment generally involves medications, surgery and electrical shock therapy. Certain natural supplements such as taurine may also help manage the condition.
About Taurine
Taurine is an amino acid found abundantly in protein-rich foods such as meat and fish. It can also be synthesized in the human body from other sulfur-containing amino acids such as cysteine and methionine and vitamin B-6, and plays an important role in the development of brain, heart, eyes and blood platelets in infants. It also stabilizes the cell membranes and promotes the detoxification of the liver. Individuals who cannot make their own taurine may require taurine supplements. Supplements may also help manage certain conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and cystic fibrosis.
Link Between Taurine and Tachycardia
Taurine regulates the activity of a chemical known as cyclic adenosine monophosphate, which plays an important role in contraction of heart muscles, and intravenous administration of taurine supplements may help prevent abnormal heart rhythm, according to the website Nutritional Review. Another study published the June 2006 issue of the journal "Medical Hypothesis" states that oral administration of taurine in combination with arginine may help eliminate irregular heartbeat. The University of Michigan Health System also recommends 2 g of tuarine supplements three times a day to regulate heart muscle contractions.
Side Effects
No major side effects have been associated with the use of taurine supplements. In fact, according to the European Food Safety Authority, 1,000 mg of taurine per kilogram of body weight per day is generally safe to use. Very high amounts of taurine in combination with physical exercise or alcohol, however, may be life-threatening.
Precautions
Always consult a doctor before using taurine supplements to treat tachycardia. Do not discontinue any existing medications without asking your doctor. Also, inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you might be taking to avoid possible drug interactions and adverse reactions.
References
- Nutrition Review: Drug-free Alternatives for Arrhythmia
- "Medical Hypothesis"; Elimination of Cardiac Arrhythmias Using Oral Taurine with l-Arginine with Case Histories: Hypothesis for Nitric Oxide Stabilization of the Sinus Node; George Eby, et al.; June 2006
- University of Michigan Health System: Taurine
- European Food Safety Authority: EFSA adopts opinion on two ingredients commonly used in some energy drinks.
Member Comments