Taurine, which is commonly called an amino acid, is not part of the human body’s structural proteins. It is actually found in the blood and tissues of the human body. When the body is partaking in physical activity the body stops producing taurine and a deficiency occurs. Generally the body depletes this amino acid faster than the body can produce it. Taking a taurine supplement can be extremely useful because it aids the human body in the following:

1. Taurine has a detoxifying effect. Taurine has been found to have antioxidant effects and stimulate the immune system to rid the body of unwanted toxins.

2. Taurine helps the brain function properly. Taurine has been found to help the brain function, especially with people who have bipolar disorder or manic depression. People suffering from these disorders may be given a supplement to help them deal with it.

3. Taurine is good for your heart. In Japan Taurine is often used to treat some kinds of heart disease and some heart arrhythmias. Patients who are undergoing treatment for heart failure or chronic heart conditions commonly take taurine on a daily basis to help heart heal properly.

4. Taurine can help treat diabetes. Because taurine acts as an antioxidant it may promote pancreatic health and be beneficial to people suffering from type 1 diabetes. It can also improve insulin resistance.

5. Taurine can help treat alcohol addictions. For those that are dependent on alcohol, taurine can help get them through the withdrawal period. Research shows that those taking taurine instead of a placebo had less psychotic episodes when trying to give up alcohol. It also prevented alcohol relapse.

Taurine supplements are available from astronutrition.com in both powder and capsule form and should be taken on an empty stomach.