Taurine, or L-taurine, is a semiessential amino acid found in the central nervous system, muscle tissue and heart. Taurine is also found naturally in a number of foods. Some research has suggested that taking taurine as a supplement may help treat a number of conditions, including reducing anxiety symptoms. Excess catecholamines, also known as neurotransmitters, can cause anxiety-like symptoms.
About Anxiety and Catecholamines
Anxiety is a normal response to a life-threatening situation. However, some people have anxiety disorders in which anxiety symptoms are present when no danger exists. Catecholamines are hormones, such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, which are produced by the adrenal glands. Catecholamines are released into the bloodstream during emotional or physical stress. Some people with anxiety disorder have too much of some catecholamines, causing the body to remain in a hypervigilant state, even when no threat is present.
About Taurine
Taurine is found naturally in animal proteins, such as meat, poultry, eggs, fish and dairy. According to MayoClinic.com nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky, taurine is believed to have antioxidant properties. It may help to improve athletic performance and is a common ingredient in energy drinks. Taurine and caffeine are purported to increase mental performance, although more research is needed. Other potential benefits of taurine supplements include lowering blood pressure and cholesterol and other cardiovascular advantages. Taurine has also been found to have glucose-regulatory effects.
Taurine and Anxiety
Research has indicated that taurine supplements may help in the treatment of anxiety. A study published in the "Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism" investigated taurine's effect on rats during a difficult maze test. Researcher C.G. Zhang and colleagues found that taurine appeared to have antianxiety properties, because rats treated with the supplement had less stressful responses. Another study published in "Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology" found that taurine injected into rats inhibited anxiety during an elevated maze test.
Precautions
Consult with your physician before taking taurine supplements because they can interact with certain medications or worsen some illnesses. Very few side effects from taurine supplements have been reported. No recommended dietary allowance has been established for the supplement. Talk to your physician or pharmacist to determine an appropriate dosage to treat anxiety. Dosages of anywhere from 2 to 6 g of taurine has been used in research studies.
References
- Surgeon General Report: Etiology of Anxiety Disorders
- MedlinePlus; Catecholamines; Linda J. Vorvick; February 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Taurine in Energy Drinks: What is it?; Katherine Zeratsky; June 2010
- "Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism"; Taurine Induces Anti-Anxiety by Activating Strychnine-Sensitive Glycine Receptor In Vivo; C.G. Zhang, et al.; August 2007
- "Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology"; Effects of Taurine on Anxiety-like and Locomotor Behavior of Mice; A. El Idrissi, et al.; 2009
- eMedTV; Taurine; Kristi Monson; July 2008
