Taurine
Also known as: 2-aminoethanesulfonic acid
A sulfur-containing amino acid, commonly cited in the research literature for context around metabolism and cellular function.
Taurine at a glance
| Name | Taurine |
|---|---|
| Also known as | 2-aminoethanesulfonic acid |
| Category | Energy & metabolism |
| Type | Amino / injectable |
| Sequence | Sulfur-containing amino acid (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) |
| Typical dose | ~500-3000 mg per day (commonly cited) |
| Frequency | Once daily or divided |
| Route | Oral (supplement) |
| Half-life | Cleared over roughly one hour in circulation, with tissue stores turning over more slowly. |
Overview
Taurine is a conditionally essential amino acid found in high concentrations in the heart, muscle, and brain. It is common in the diet and in energy drinks, and is sold as a supplement. Research has examined roles in exercise, metabolism, and cellular protection. Presented for educational context only.
How it’s thought to work
- Reported to support cell volume regulation and osmotic balance.
- Appears to have antioxidant and calcium-handling roles in muscle and heart cells.
- Studied for effects on bile acid conjugation and mitochondrial function.
Researched uses
- Exercise performance and recovery in human studies
- Metabolic and cardiovascular markers in research
- Antioxidant and cellular protection in models
Commonly cited protocol
| Typical dose | ~500-3000 mg per day (commonly cited) |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Once daily or divided |
| Route | Oral (supplement) |
| Notes | Taken orally as capsules or powder; higher acute doses appear in some exercise studies. |
Reconstitution
Taken orally rather than injected, so insulin-syringe unit math does not apply.
Cautions
- Sold as a dietary supplement; not an FDA-approved drug.
- Generally well tolerated, but high intakes are not fully studied long-term.
- Quality and dose accuracy vary by brand.
- Not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.
Taurine FAQ
What is Taurine?
A sulfur-containing amino acid, commonly cited in the research literature for context around metabolism and cellular function.
How does Taurine work?
Reported to support cell volume regulation and osmotic balance. Appears to have antioxidant and calcium-handling roles in muscle and heart cells. Studied for effects on bile acid conjugation and mitochondrial function.
What is Taurine used for?
Exercise performance and recovery in human studies; Metabolic and cardiovascular markers in research; Antioxidant and cellular protection in models.
What is a typical Taurine dose?
~500-3000 mg per day (commonly cited), Once daily or divided, Oral (supplement). This is a commonly cited figure for context only, not medical advice.
How do you reconstitute Taurine?
Taken orally rather than injected, so insulin-syringe unit math does not apply.
What is the half-life of Taurine?
Cleared over roughly one hour in circulation, with tissue stores turning over more slowly.