Is taurine safe? The truth about its side effects

No, taurine has nothing to do with bulls! It's a sulfuric acid produced by and for the body's own functioning, and used by Sniffy. Beware of confusion directly linked to the marketing of a famous energy drink and its bull. What's more, when these trendy drinks came out, many claims were made about taurine. Here's the truth about taurine's side effects.

 

Taurine's role in the body

Taurine is an essential amino acid that the body produces itself from methionine or cysteine. Present in large quantities in the brain, retina and muscles, it plays a key role in the absorption of fats by the intestine and the maturation of the nervous system.

Indispensable for infant development, it is also present in breast milk and added to infant formulas.

Taurine is also recognized for its stimulating properties, often incorporated into energy drinks and powders to enhance physical and mental performance, particularly in times of stress. These multiple functions make taurine essential to the body's proper functioning and development.

 

Side effects of taurine

Taurine, while beneficial in moderate quantities, can cause side effects if consumed in excess. In people suffering from epilepsy or thyroid disorders, it can aggravate these conditions. In cases of heart failure, its use must be strictly supervised by a health professional.

Side effects include increased heart rate, anxiety and nervousness, as well as digestive disorders such as diarrhoea or constipation. Taurine-based energy products should not be taken in combination with alcohol, during intense physical effort, or by vulnerable people: children, adolescents, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people with heart disease. Responsible consumption is therefore essential to avoid these risks.

 

Indications for taking taurine

For optimum use of taurine, it's essential to adhere to the recommended dosages. In powder, capsule or drink form, it is often combined with caffeine, B vitamins or plant extracts such as guarana and ginseng. Usual doses vary between 2 and 3 g per day, according to Vidal and Sniffy advises not to exceed two vials (i.e. 2 g). It is imperative to avoid any association with alcohol, which can accentuate undesirable effects.

In addition, if you are taking medication, medical advice is essential to avoid potential interactions. For example, substances such as caffeine can alter the efficacy of medications or cause side effects. A prior assessment of your medical history and any medications you are taking will ensure that taurine can be taken in complete safety.

 

So is taurine really dangerous?

Taurine is naturally present in the body and quite safe when consumed in moderate doses (2 to 3 g per day). It plays a key role in a number of bodily functions, but excessive or inappropriate use can be problematic, particularly in people suffering from epilepsy, cardiovascular or thyroid disorders.

By adhering to recommended dosages and taking into account individual medical conditions, taurine can be safely consumed by most people.

Taurine can be of benefit when consumed in moderation and with care. However, inappropriate use can present risks. It is preferable to consult a health professional to ensure safe and appropriate use. Discover our energy powders and let yourself go for a boost.