Taurine is also found in meat and fish, and is used by the body to regulate heartbeat, maintain cell membranes, and to protect against brain cell overactivity. It is also a component in the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Although manufactured by the body, taurine levels may be less than optimal in some individuals. To begin with, newborns cannot make taurine, so they need to receive adequate amounts from breast milk or formula. Vegans, vegetarians who do not consume dairy or eggs, could also be deficient.
Taurine deficiency is common among diabetics, which is associated with severe retinal damage.
In most cases, the body makes sufficient amounts of taurine, however supplementation may be advocated for prevention or the treatment of certain conditions. Taurine is found in the central nervous system, skeletal muscle, and in the heart. It is especially concentrated in the brain and heart tissues. In these electrically active tissues, taurine functions to stabilize cell membranes. It also functions in the gallbladder, eyes, and blood vessels where it appears to have antioxidant and detoxifying properties.