4 Reasons Taurine (Yes, The Energy Drink Ingredient) Is Good For You*

The words energy drinks and healthy tend not to go hand in hand. Many are bursting with added (or fake) sugars, preservatives, and even artificial colors. But many also add ingredients you would see in supplements. And taurine, in particular, has been hyped up on these cans for years. 

Taurine is an amino acid you get from protein-rich foods like shellfish (your body also produces some taurine on its own). Unlike other amino acids that are used to build muscle, taurine is a free amino acid1 that's vital for energy production and mitochondrial health2, which is what makes it an appealing addition to energy drinks.*

But that's not the only thing this amino acid is involved in. Taurine also plays important roles in water balance, calcium and potassium regulation, bile creation, and nervous system function.

Taurine supplementation has been extensively studied in humans as a way to improve exercise performance. 

In fact, the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition published a review of 19 studies of taurine's impact on exercise and concluded that taking 1-3 grams of the amino acid one to three hours before a physical stressor improved:*

Emerging research also indicates that taurine supports heart health.* 

A 2023 review analyzed the existing data on taurine and cardiovascular health3 from human, animal, and lab studies. Findings revealed that the amino acid enhances the contractility of heart muscles and may promote healthy blood pressure—and that's exactly what a 2024 meta-analysis showed. 

That same meta-analysis also indicated that taurine supports healthy blood sugar levels.*

The newest area of interest when it comes to taurine is its potential role in longevity. A 2023 mouse study5 found that supplementing with taurine could increase their life expectancy by 25%. 

Relying on energy drinks for taurine is not really the best way to get this nutrient. 

Eating more protein-rich foods can help, but to take full advantage of all of taurine's benefits (in addition to making up lost stores from aging), a supplement is helpful.*

And mindbodygreen's creatine+ is a great choice. This powdered supplement contains an ideal 2-gram dose of taurine (research shows you want between 1 and 3 grams daily) and an optimal minimum 5-gram dose of creatine.*