The amino acid that is formed in the body from cysteine is taurine. The properties of this unique substance are so diverse that it can be called a universal biological supplement.
History suggests that taurine was first obtained from bovine bile in 1927 by German scientists Friedrich Tidemann and Leopold Gmelin.
This substance is directly involved in the metabolism of lipids in the human body. It is part of bile and helps emulsify fats in the intestines. Another property of taurine is interesting - the ability to inhibit the transmission of nerve impulses, and, therefore, the ability to stop seizures.
To date, the unique composition of the product is included in the formulation of many eye drops. It helps restore dystrophically damaged retina.
Modern information portals tell a lot about taurine. Almost always, we hear only positive reviews about this substance, however, is this amino acid so useful. Is Taurine harmful or not?
Of course, any drug substance has not only positive properties, but also a number of negative effects on the body. There is an opinion that medicinal substances, if used improperly or in an overdose, can become toxic to humans.
The effect on the liver and biliary tract of the described drug is ambiguous. The fact is that taurine enhances bile formation, and, accordingly, is harmful to people suffering from liver pathology. Patients with cholelithiasis, viral and inflammatory diseases of the liver should consult a doctor about the possibility of using this amino acid in treatment.
Taurine is also harmful to people suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The drug causes an increase in the acidity of the gastric juice, respectively, for patients with an already high acid content in the juice, this drug is contraindicated. It is also worthwhile to use the amino acid with caution in patients with peptic ulcer of the stomach and intestines, impaired by enzymatic activity.
Taurine is also harmful to our cardiovascular system. This fact can be disputed, because all the instructions for this drug suggest that the amino acid protects the heart muscle from stress. Yes, this is true, but it protects a healthy heart. Taurine lowers blood pressure, respectively, in patients with an established diagnosis, hypotension can cause serious disturbances in the activity of the heart.
Taurine is also involved in the interaction of neurotransmitters. His harm lies in the fact that he can activate all the processes in the body so much that he will work for "wear and tear". Therefore, the use of such biological additives must be extremely careful.
The reference literature indicates that the taurine substance alone cannot cause an overdose, but it is worth noting that the drug can have too strong an effect on organs and systems, which can lead to disruption and malfunction in their work.
Taurine is harmful to both pregnant women and nursing mothers, especially if its intake is excessive. In the body of any person, taurine is produced daily in the required quantities, and also occurs in pregnant women. In them, this amino acid can be found even in breast milk. Due to the fact that the effect of the drug on the fetus has not been fully identified, it is best to avoid taking the supplement during pregnancy.
From all of the above, we can conclude that taurine, like any other biologically active additives, is useful only if it is taken as directed by a doctor, in an adequate dosage and in the absence of severe somatic pathology.