Although taurine is in protein-rich foods such as beef, you can also find this amino acid in powdered supplements. Taurine powder is a popular supplement for athletes. It is relatively inexpensive and can be a more convenient source of the amino acid -- which research suggests has numerous physical benefits -- than whole foods. While taurine powder can be beneficial, you should consult a doctor before using this or any other supplements.
What is Taurine?
Taurine is an amino acid, one of a class of molecular building blocks of protein. All amino acids have different functions, and one of taurine's main functions is to ensure proper levels of water in muscle cells. Exercise depletes your muscles' stores of taurine, which makes taurine powder a popular sports supplement. According to MayoClinic.com nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky, taurine is also involved in the development of your nervous system and it might act as an antioxidant.
Taurine Powder and Exercise Recovery
Physical exercise and other external factors, such as cigarette smoke, can promote the production of free radicals. These molecules can cause oxidative damage to your cells. If you use taurine powder, you might avoid some of this damage. A study published in the January 2011 edition of the journal "Cell Biochemistry and Function" found that taurine supplementation reduced the amount of oxidative damage promoted by exercise.
Taurine and Testosterone
Another potential benefit of taurine powder for athletes is its ability to promote hormonal changes. According to a study published in the June 2010 edition of "Amino Acids," taurine supplementation can increase testosterone production. Testosterone can enhance muscle gain and fat loss.
Taurine and Cognition
In addition to promoting physical benefits, taurine powder may provide psychological advantages. As Dr. Susan M. Kleiner explains in her nutritional handbook, "Power Eating," taurine can promote increased mental performance, enhanced attention and better mood.
References
- ExRx.net: Taurine
- MayoClinic.com; Taurine in Energy Drinks: What Is It?; Katherine Zeratsky; June 2010
- "Cell Biochemistry and Function"; Taurine Supplementation Decreases Oxidative Stress in Skeletal Muscle After Eccentric Exercise; L.A. Silva et al.; January 2011
- "Amino Acids"; CSD mRNA Expression in Rat Testis and the Effect of Taurine on Testosterone Secretion; J. Yang et al.; June 2010
- "Power Eating"; Dr. Susan M. Kleiner; Human Kinetics; 2006
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