The heart is a muscular organ that is responsible for pumping blood in the body. Conditions such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, infections and congenital defects may affect the proper functioning of the organ. Heart diseases commonly occur due to the formation of plaque in the blood vessels, thickening of heart muscles or pathogenic microorganisms. Genetics, diet and physical activity play a major role in the occurrence of heart disease. Irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain and dizziness are common symptoms, and treatment includes medications and surgery. Certain supplements such as taurine may also help prevent or treat heart disease.
About Taurine
Taurine is a sulphur-containing amino acid that is found in large amounts in the brain, heart, eyes and blood platelets. It can be obtained from foods such as fish, meat, poultry and dairy. Your body can also synthesize taurine from other amino acids such as cysteine and methionine in the presence of vitamin B-6. Your doctor may also recommend up to 6 g of taurine supplements per day to prevent or treat heart disease. The supplements also help to increase physical endurance, enhance water balance and prevent cataracts.
Link Between Taurine and Heart Function
Taurine has the ability to regulate water and mineral levels in the body and expression of protein in the mitochondria. It can also inhibit cell death, and thereby help to maintain the structure and function of heart muscles, according to a study published in the May 2008 issue of the "Journal of Cellular and Molecular Cardiology." Another study published in the January 2010 issue of the journal "Atherosclerosis" also reveals that taurine can lower blood pressure. It also possesses significant antioxidant activity and may prevent the free-radical mediated damage of the heart cells and tissues. Taurine also regulates the changes in calcium ion concentration and helps to maintain contractile function of the heart muscles, says an article in the December 2009 issue of the "Journal of Biomedical Science."
Side Effects
Taurine supplements are generally safe to use and no major side effects have been reported in adults and children. According to a February 2009 press release by the European Food Safety Authority, up to 1,000 mg of taurine per kg of body weight per day is generally safe.
Precautions
However, it is best to talk to a doctor before using taurine supplements to prevent or treat heart disease. Remember that these supplements may not replace your prescription medications. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions or medications you might be taking.
References
- "Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology"; Taurine Depletion Caused by Knocking Out the Taurine Transporter Gene Leads to Cardiomyopathy with Cardiac Atrophy; Takashi Ito, et al.; May 2008
- "Atherosclerosis"; The Potential Protective Effects of Taurine on Coronary Heart Disease; Oktawia P. Wójcik, et al.; January 2010
- "Journal of Biomedical Science"; Physiological Roles of Taurine in Heart and Muscle; Stephen W Schaffer, et al.; December 2009
- European Food Safety Authority: EFSA adopts opinion on two ingredients commonly used in some energy drinks.
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