Taurine and liver damage

Taurine is an amino acid often found in formulas to decrease blood pressure, elevate mood, and assist in detox and to calm an overexcited central nervous system.

Recent research has found that the amino acid extraordinaire, taurine protects against complications of liver cirrhosis by reducing portal vein hypertension (PVH).

Thirty patients were randomised to receive either 6 g of taurine or placebo daily for 28 days, and were measured for trends in portal and systemic blood pressure. Results revealed that 58% of those taking taurine had more than 10% reduction in PVH, while a third had more than 20% reduction; this compares with a slight increase in PVH in the placebo group.

Positive results were linked to taurine stimulating antioxidant activity within the liver, with anti-fibrotic effects reducing PVH. Indicating taurine is fairly instrumental in the holistic management of chronic liver disease.