Our bodies need essential amino acids as these building blocks of protein serve many different functions in the body. These are related to muscle repair, an improvement in the function of cell membranes in the body and the forming of proteins that act as agents in the metabolism of fats in the body. Taurine is a byproduct of 2 essential amino acids called Cysteine and Methionine. This amino acid serves a variety of useful of functions in the body. Some of these include the metabolism of fats in the body, heart health benefits and some important uses that relate to physical exercise and the sport of bodybuilding. However, did you know that Taurine also improves vision health as well? Therefore, here is some information concerning the benefits of this amino acid in improving vision health as well as other vital applications related to our general health:
Eye Health Benefits: Taurine has been shown to improve the health of the retina in the eyes. More specifically, it improves the function of the rods and the cones in the eyes that are the light sensitive areas of the visual system found at the back of the retina. These rods are responsible for helping us to see clearly at night and the cones are responsible for color perception. In other words, the cones enable us to see bright colors and achieve sharper eyesight in the daytime. Research also shows that this nutrient reduces the risks for the development of the age related eye disease macular degeneration. Taurine also plays a role in controlling the function of nerve impulses. Important eye functions such as eye movements as well as the transmission of images to the retina rely on functions associated with nerve impulses. For this reason, abundant sources of Taurine are found in the retina at the back of the eyes.
Assists in Strengthening the Heart: One of the consequences of the aging process is the weakening of the heart muscles in terms of its ability to pump out blood to the various parts of the body. Research suggests that Taurine provides nutrients that increase the strength of the heart muscles thereby increasing the efficiency of the heart muscles and heart function.
Improves Mood, Physical Performance And Energy: Additional functions include an improvement in mood and an increase in energy production in the body. For this reason, this nutrient is found in some popular energy drinks where it is combined with caffeine to increase physical performance. This combination also has some effect on improving cognitive function. Taurine is also vital for building muscle. High concentrations of Taurine are found in our muscles. Therefore, this nutrient serves a useful purpose in bodybuilding situations whereby intense workouts are an integral part of fitness routines. This is due to the fact that Taurine helps repair the damage done to muscles in high intensity workout routines that result in an increase in the hormone cortisol. Therefore, it plays a major role in repairing muscle damage from high intensity works and also improves physical performance. Food sources of Taurine include eggs, fish, red meat and dairy products. Taurine supplements are also available at your local health foods store.
