Taurine is a semi-essential amino acid (one that can be made in the body but not in sufficient quantity) that is especially important to normal heart and brain function. Its cardiovascular benefits may be related to its antioxidant properties, its role in regulating calcium flow across cell membranes, and its ability to relax blood vessels by increasing nitric oxide production.^1,2 In a placebo-controlled trial, 120 subjects with pre-hypertension were given either 1.6 grams of taurine daily or placebo for 12 weeks; those who received taurine had an average 4.6 mmHg greater drop in systolic blood pressure and 3.3 mmHg drop in diastolic blood pressure.³ A meta-analysis pooled data from seven trials with a combined total of 103 participants and concluded taurine can effectively reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressures by an average of 3 mmHg when used in doses between 1 and 6 grams per day for up to 12 weeks.⁴

 

Taurine, an amino acid, helps increase the force and effectiveness of heart-muscle contractions. Research (some double-blind) has shown that taurine helps people with CHF.^5,6,7,8 Most doctors suggest taking 2 grams three times per day.