As a neurotransmitter taurine inhibits nerve impulses thus stopping unwanted nervous reactions like those that cause seizures, hyperactivity and anxiety.  In the heart taurine regulates contractions and prevents irregular heartbeats.  It also regulates potassium levels, which ensures regularity of the heartbeat.   A deficiency of taurine leads to damage in the photoreceptors of the eye.  Thus visual impairment can be caused by a lack of taurine.

Taurine is a part of the bile acids that are released into the intestine with fatty meals.  Bile acids emulsify fat and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.  Natural health practitioners for heart disease, heart failure, high cholesterol, diabetes, hypoglycemia, epilepsy, anxiety, hyperactivity, high blood pressure and visual impairment recommend taurine.

The biologically active form of taurine is L-taurine.  It is commonly found as a powder or in capsules. It may be found in formulas for heart health.  It is used with coenzyme Q10 and carnitine for supporting the heart.  Vegetarians tend to lack taurine because food sources are animal based.  Take amino acid supplements at least 1/2 hour before or after a meal to maximize their absorption.  If you take an individual amino acid supplement for longer than one month, add an amino acid complex to the protocol to prevent the deficiency of other amino acids.

Alcohol consumption leads to deficiency of taurine.  Taurine can lessen the need for insulin and oral hypoglycemics.