Does taurine help with sleep?

If you’re having trouble getting a restful night’s sleep, chances are you’ve tried everything from counting sheep to melatonin supplements. But what about taurine? Yes, that’s right – the same ingredient found in energy drinks can also help improve your sleep. In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between taurine and sleep and whether or not it actually works.

What is taurine?

Before we dive into the benefits of taurine on sleep, let’s first understand what it is. Taurine is an amino acid that our bodies naturally produce but can also be found in food sources such as meat and fish. It plays a crucial role in several bodily functions like bile production and regulating calcium levels.

Fun fact: Did you know that cats cannot synthesize their own taurine? That’s why commercial cat food contains added amounts of this essential nutrient!

How does taurine affect sleep?

While there isn’t much research on the effects of taurine specifically on sleep, studies have shown that it can promote relaxation by increasing GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) activity in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter responsible for calming neural activity which leads to feelings of relaxation.

Additionally, some animal studies have suggested that low levels of dietary intake of taurine could lead to anxiety-like symptoms which could negatively impact overall quality of life including poorer quality rest.

Taurine vs other natural remedies

Now before all my valerian root advocates get riled up – I’m not saying only take one thing! But if supplementation with herbs like chamomile tea isn’t cutting it then bring out the big guns…

When compared to other natural remedies used for promoting better sleep such as magnesium or ashwagandha; little evidence has been reported showing quantifiable results at improving quantity/quality of sleep.

Taurine vs pharmaceuticals

Unlike sleeping pills, taurine is not sedative in effect but more so relaxing. This means that you are less likely to feel groggy or suffer from the dreaded “hangover” effect typically associated with prescription medication.

Moreover, regularly using sleeping pills may even interfere with your body’s natural production of smaller doses of this amino acid which could actually exacerbate quality of sleep long term by lowering leftover levels pre-sleep onset.

Tip: try taking a well-rounded approach and speak to your doctor before starting regular supplementation regimes.

Who can benefit from supplementing with taurine?

While anyone looking for better rest could potentially benefit from taking taurine supplements, some people may find it particularly helpful including:

  • Shift workers
  • People who experience anxiety or depression
  • Elderly individuals
  • Those suffering from chronic pain
  • Individuals at risk for seizures

If you’re dealing with any kind of physical ailment mentioned above then do consult your doctor first about whether this might be a good option for promoting an improved sense of wellbeing/quality rest until deeper investigation regarding formal clinical application has been established.

How much taurine should I take per day?

The amount required varies between individuals depending on age/gender/body mass index (BMI). However, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), daily oral intake via dietary exposure in adults doesn’t require a specific set recommended level as adequate concentrations are already present in regular eating patterns containing meat & fish products.

That said if used strategically (such as prior bed) – taking under 300mg/pure dose isn’t shown to have major negative effects amongst users overall typically seen more commonly in energy drinks linked to increased blood pressure etc.. If choosing tablets/capsules – always verify dosage instructions related to types/models specifically made available by authorised retailers/manufacturers based on general support offering (not aimed at curing severe sleep disorders).

Are there any side effects?

While supplementation with taurine is generally considered safe, it’s always important to speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or medication. It is worth noting that some individuals have reported side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort or an irregular heartbeat after taking high doses of the amino acid.

Additionally it should be noted that although optimal concentrations may lead to better sleep – this ingredient in isolation will not benefit all types of poor sleep phenotypes (i.e.: consistent issues around day-night cycle misalignment).

Conclusion

Does taurine help with sleep? While more research needs to be conducted on the direct effects of taurine on restful slumber, current studies suggest that regular supplementation could promote relaxation and calm neural activity which are beneficial for a better night’s sleep. However, it isn’t a magic cure-all and shouldn’t replace good sleeping habits such as avoiding electronics prior to bedtime and keeping a consistent schedule; but rather used adjunctively when helpful e.g: special days requiring increased focus/energy need buttressed by good quality zzzs beforehand!

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