Taurine
Taurine is used to prevent and treat a serious heart disease known as congestive cardiomyopathy. In cats, taurine is an essential amino acid. It is needed for vision and the reproductive function. It provides protection against free radicals, making it also a first-rate antioxidant in the fight against ageing.
A little background information
Taurine was discovered in 1826 in the bile of cattle (Bos Taurus),It is an amino acidcontaining sulphur that is found in most animal tissue,and concentrates in the muscles. Contrary to traditionalamino acids however, it does not have any role in protein synthesis.
Its role in the body
Taurine enables the liver to synthesise bile salts. It also works by regulating calcium flows into and out of the cells and as a consequence it acts on the cardiac function. It has a major antioxidant action in the cell, as well as playing a role as a precursor for the synthesis of complex skin lipids (glycosphingolipids), which have antibacterial properties.
Natural sources
Meats (e.g. the organs of fowl) are the main natural source of taurine.
