Amino Acids

by Matt Jarosy

Taurine: The Sulphur Amino Acid for Calm, Focus and Cellular Health

Taurine is one of those nutrients that quietly supports almost every major system in the body, yet often goes unnoticed. It’s an amino sulfonic acid, commonly referred to as an amino acid, though it doesn’t form part of structural proteins. Instead, taurine acts as a functional molecule - influencing the heart, brain, liver and mitochondria. What is Taurine? Taurine is found abundantly in animal tissues, and is the most concentrated free amino acid in the human body. It’s highest in the heart and brain, followed by skeletal muscle and the eyes. Even breast milk contains taurine to support infant brain and retinal development. Unlike amino acids such as leucine or glycine, taurine isn’t used to build new tissue. It’s considered a conditionally essential amino acid - meaning your body can make small amounts from cysteine and methionine, but under stress or illness, your demand far exceeds what you can synthesise. Taurine is only naturally present in animal foods like eggs, beef, shellfish and turkey. That means vegans and plant-based eaters are at higher risk of deficiency. Why Taurine Appears in Energy Drinks Many people first encounter taurine through energy drinks, which include it for its ability to enhance mental focus and reduce fatigue. Despite popular myths, taurine doesn’t come from bull urine — its name simply derives from the Latin word taurus, meaning bull or ox. In reality, taurine’s benefits extend far beyond stimulation — it supports steady energy, nervous system balance and metabolic protection. Key Roles of Taurine in the Body Taurine plays a remarkably diverse role in maintaining physiological balance. Its key functions include: Supporting magnesium utilisation within cells. Assisting copper and liver metabolism. Promoting healthy estrogen detoxification. Helping regulate cholesterol and bile acid production. Maintaining cellular hydration and electrolyte balance. Regulating insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Modulating the central nervous system by interacting with GABA and glutamate receptors. Protecting mitochondria from oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species. Through these mechanisms, taurine contributes to both metabolic and emotional stability - influencing energy levels, detoxification, hormone regulation and mood. Taurine, GABA and Sleep Taurine acts as a natural neuromodulator in the brain. It interacts with GABA receptors - the same calming neurotransmitter pathways that magnesium supports - helping the nervous system relax and unwind. By balancing excitatory and inhibitory activity, taurine can promote deeper, more restorative sleep and reduce symptoms of overstimulation. For this reason, many people find taurine helpful before bed. However, it can also be used in the morning to enhance calm focus and mental clarity — it works adaptively depending on your state. Our Approach to Taurine Supplementation Taurine is featured in two of our formulations: Our Magnesium Taurate - combines magnesium with around 400 mg of taurine per serving to support heart health, performance recovery and relaxation. This form delivers gentle, sustained mineral replenishment alongside taurine’s nervous system benefits. Our Metabolic Flow includes taurine alongside CoQ10, PQQ and magnesium malate for mitochondrial support and cellular energy balance. Both are crafted to deliver taurine in bioavailable, balanced forms without synthetic additives - part of our commitment to additive-free, biologically intelligent supplementation. How Much Taurine Should You Take? While our magnesium taurate provides a meaningful base, many athletes and active individuals choose to supplement additional taurine. A typical daily range is 500 mg to 3,000 mg. Doses above this may cause digestive discomfort or mild dizziness in sensitive individuals, so it’s best to start low and assess tolerance. If you’re taking medications, particularly those affecting blood pressure or insulin, consult your healthcare professional before supplementing. Final Thoughts Taurine plays a quietly powerful role in how we feel and function day to day. From balancing electrolytes to calming the nervous system and protecting mitochondria, it’s one of those nutrients that bridges the gap between stress, performance and recovery. Whether for sleep, mental clarity or endurance, taurine offers a broad foundation for modern wellbeing - especially when paired with magnesium for full mineral synergy.