We explored how taurine, a non-essential amino acid found in energy drinks, influences anxiety and alcohol intake in rats. The study involved both alcohol-naïve rats and those with a history of alcohol consumption, allowing us to see how taurine affects different groups.
Our findings showed that when taurine was administered directly into the brain, it significantly reduced alcohol consumption and preference in the alcohol-experienced rats. This suggests that taurine might help lessen the urge to drink in individuals struggling with alcohol use.
Interestingly, we also observed that taurine had an anxiolytic-like effect across all groups, meaning it seemed to reduce anxiety regardless of the rats' previous alcohol exposure. This dual effect highlights taurine's potential as a therapeutic option for anxiety and alcohol-related issues, making it a fascinating subject for further research.
Read More
8
Taurine reduces anxiety in mice
Long-term taurine supplementation regulates brain mitochondrial dynamics in mice.
We looked into how taurine, a common amino acid found in the brain, affects anxiety levels. Young mice were given different concentrations of taurine (0.25%, 0.5%, and 1%) in their drinking water for six months to see its potential benefits on memory, cognition, and mood.
Throughout the study, we observed that taurine had a significant effect on improving memory performance and reducing signs of anxiety and depression-like behavior in the mice. In addition to these behavioral changes, taurine also appeared to enhance mitochondrial function, which plays a crucial role in energy and cell health within the brain.
Interestingly, we found no significant difference in anxiety reduction between the various doses of taurine. This suggests that even lower amounts of taurine may be effective. Overall, our findings point towards taurine's potential as a therapeutic option for addressing anxiety and related neurological issues, although further research in humans is necessary to confirm these results.
Read More
8
Taurine shows promise against anxiety
Assessing the Anxiolytic Properties of Taurine-Derived Compounds in Rats Following Developmental Lead Exposure: A Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pharmacological Pilot Study.
We explored the potential of taurine and its derivatives to reduce anxiety in rats that experienced developmental lead (Pb) exposure. The study involved carefully controlled experiments with various treatment groups, including a control group and those exposed to different levels of lead. This allowed us to examine how taurine influenced anxiety levels using established methods for testing behavior.
Although lead exposure did not significantly affect locomotor activity, it did cause increased anxiety in the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) test. Interestingly, we observed that female rats exhibited more anxious behavior compared to males. However, those that received taurine or its derivatives showed improvement, indicating that these compounds may indeed help alleviate anxiety, particularly in females.
The findings suggest that taurine and its derivatives could serve as promising options for anxiety management, paving the way for further research into their effects on mood disorders. Overall, the results reveal exciting possibilities for using taurine-based treatments to support individuals struggling with anxiety.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Calms my anxiety
I absolutely love taurine. It effectively calms my anxiety. I would definitely buy it again.
Read More
7.5
Improved sleep quality
8 people found this helpful
Taurine is my go-to supplement for relaxation and sleep. As an antioxidant, it helps combat free radicals and oxidative stress. It enhances athletic performance, maintains energy levels, and supports liver function, particularly in reducing the effects of alcohol. I've noticed improvements in both my sleep and anxiety levels. Always do thorough research before introducing anything new into your body.
Read More
7.5
Beneficial for anxiety attacks
Taurine is remarkable for various health benefits, including heart health, eye function, and alleviating anxiety attacks. I appreciate this specific brand for its natural ingredients. Taurine is particularly effective for controlling migraines by absorbing excess glutamine, and I trust Solgar as a high-quality brand.
We examined the effects of Blue Calm®, a food supplement containing taurine and other ingredients, on anxiety associated with alcohol withdrawal in adult zebrafish.
In our study, we tested different doses of Blue Calm® to see its sedative and anxiolytic-like effects. The results were promising; all doses exhibited an ability to reduce anxiety without toxicity.
Additionally, the study suggested that the active components, including taurine, might interact with the GABA receptors, indicating a target for treating anxiety linked to alcohol withdrawal.
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9
Taurine reduces anxiety response
Taurine modulates the stress response in zebrafish.
We explored the effects of taurine on anxiety-related behaviors in zebrafish, a popular model for stress research. By treating zebrafish with various concentrations of taurine, we examined how it influences their reactions to stressors like chemical alarms and chasing.
Our findings indicate that taurine helps to reduce anxiety and cortisol levels in these fish, supporting its potential in protecting against stress-related changes. This adds to the valuable insights gained from using zebrafish to understand neuroprotective substances, including taurine, in vertebrates.
Read More
9
Taurine reduces anxiety, alcohol intake
Acute taurine reduced alcohol intake and preference in alcohol-experienced, but not in alcohol-näive rats by central mechanisms.
We explored how taurine, a non-essential amino acid found in energy drinks, influences anxiety and alcohol intake in rats. The study involved both alcohol-naïve rats and those with a history of alcohol consumption, allowing us to see how taurine affects different groups.
Our findings showed that when taurine was administered directly into the brain, it significantly reduced alcohol consumption and preference in the alcohol-experienced rats. This suggests that taurine might help lessen the urge to drink in individuals struggling with alcohol use.
Interestingly, we also observed that taurine had an anxiolytic-like effect across all groups, meaning it seemed to reduce anxiety regardless of the rats' previous alcohol exposure. This dual effect highlights taurine's potential as a therapeutic option for anxiety and alcohol-related issues, making it a fascinating subject for further research.
Read More
9
Taurine alleviates PTSD-related anxiety
Supplementation of taurine improves ionic homeostasis and mitochondrial function in the rats exhibiting post-traumatic stress disorder-like symptoms.
We explored the effects of taurine, a naturally occurring nutrient, on anxiety related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in rats. The study involved exposing these animals to stressors followed by a re-stress phase to mimic PTSD symptoms. During this period, we administered various doses of taurine along with a standard antidepressant, paroxetine.
Our findings showed that taurine supplementation significantly improved PTSD-like symptoms in the rats, particularly in reducing anxiety and hyperarousal. In particular, the medium and high doses of taurine demonstrated notable success, as they not only eased anxiety but also enhanced spatial recognition. Additionally, taurine helped restore normal levels of certain key hormones and ions in the blood, which are often disrupted by stress.
Ultimately, our research indicates that taurine may play a beneficial role in managing anxiety associated with PTSD, especially given its impact on the underlying mechanisms like potassium homeostasis and mitochondrial function. This suggests a promising avenue for future treatments targeting anxiety disorders in broader settings.
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9
Taurine reduces stress-induced anxiety
Amelioration of Repeated Restraint Stress-Induced Behavioral Deficits and Hippocampal Anomalies with Taurine Treatment in Mice.
In our study, we delved into how taurine, a naturally occurring antioxidant, impacts anxiety, particularly in the context of stress-induced behavioral changes. We used a group of Swiss albino male mice, which were subjected to 6 hours of restraint stress daily for 28 days to simulate chronic stress conditions. The mice were divided into four groups: a control group, a restraint stress group, a group receiving taurine while undergoing stress, and a taurine-only control group.
Our findings revealed that taurine treatment noticeably improved the anxiety-related behaviors of the stressed mice. We assessed this by using several tests designed to gauge behavioral responses, such as the elevated plus-maze and the forced swim test. In those subjected to restraint stress, taurine notably countered the negative effects, restoring normal behavior patterns.
We also found that taurine helped reduce oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus, a key brain area for mood regulation. This is significant since chronic stress can lead to various neurochemical imbalances that contribute to anxiety and depression. By inhibiting certain proteins linked to these processes, taurine demonstrated a protective effect against behavioral anomalies linked to stress.
Thus, our study presents taurine as a promising agent for alleviating anxiety associated with stress, potentially paving the way for future therapies targeting stress-induced conditions.
I absolutely love taurine. It effectively calms my anxiety. I would definitely buy it again.
Read More
7.5
Improved sleep quality
8 people found this helpful
Taurine is my go-to supplement for relaxation and sleep. As an antioxidant, it helps combat free radicals and oxidative stress. It enhances athletic performance, maintains energy levels, and supports liver function, particularly in reducing the effects of alcohol. I've noticed improvements in both my sleep and anxiety levels. Always do thorough research before introducing anything new into your body.
Read More
7.5
Beneficial for anxiety attacks
Taurine is remarkable for various health benefits, including heart health, eye function, and alleviating anxiety attacks. I appreciate this specific brand for its natural ingredients. Taurine is particularly effective for controlling migraines by absorbing excess glutamine, and I trust Solgar as a high-quality brand.
Read More
7.5
Supports mental health
Taurine is great for combating anxiety and depression! Its benefits extend to overall health, DNA support, and boosting energy. The size is convenient, and it effectively calms the nervous system while enhancing metabolism. The packaging is appealing, and the quality is reliable. I've been using it daily, and it contributes to my vitality and longevity.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Anxiety is a natural and often healthy emotion characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear about an impending event or situation. While some level of anxiety is a normal reaction to stress, excessive or chronic anxiety can become a mental health issue. It may present in various forms, from everyday worries to more severe conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, or social anxiety disorder. Symptoms can manifest both psychologically, such as persistent worry and difficulty concentrating, and physically, including symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, or fatigue.
Understanding the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder is crucial. Normal anxiety can be beneficial, motivating you to prepare for important events like exams or public speaking. However, when it starts to interfere with daily activities or leads to avoidance behaviors, it may indicate the need for professional help. Treatments for anxiety often include therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes, allowing individuals to manage their symptoms effectively. If someone is struggling with anxiety that impacts their quality of life, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is a key step toward recovery.
L-Taurine is a sulfonic acid and an amino acid often categorized as a conditionally essential amino acid due to its important roles in various bodily functions. Unlike most amino acids, L-Taurine is not used to synthesize proteins but is critical for several physiological processes, including bile salt formation, osmoregulation, and antioxidant defense. It’s naturally found in high concentrations in the brain, muscles, heart, and blood, playing a vital role in cardiovascular health and the maintenance of neurological function.
L-Taurine is often included in dietary supplements and energy drinks due to its potential benefits, such as enhancing exercise performance, improving recovery, and supporting overall energy levels. While the body can produce taurine from other amino acids like cysteine, some people may choose to supplement with it, particularly athletes or those seeking additional health benefits. As always, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure safety and appropriateness for your individual health needs.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for experiencing the benefits of taurine for anxiety can vary. Several users have reported feeling improvements relatively quickly, with some noticing a calming effect almost immediately upon use. For example, one user expressed that taurine effectively calms their anxiety and would definitely repurchase it, suggesting that they experienced this positive effect soon after beginning supplementation Read Review.
However, others highlighted the cumulative benefits of taurine, mentioning improvements in anxiety levels as part of a broader enhancement to sleep and overall well-being. It's common for supplements to take time to build efficacy, and one user noted benefits not only in sleep but also in anxiety over time Read Review. While individual experiences may differ, some users suggest a gradual experience of positive effects, indicating that consistent daily use may contribute to the best results over time.
Current scientific research suggests that taurine, a naturally occurring amino acid, may have potential benefits for anxiety management. Studies on zebrafish have shown that taurine administration leads to reduced anxiety-like behaviors, enhancing social behavior and positively influencing movement under certain conditions, particularly when interacting with ethanol [2]. In mice, taurine supplementation significantly alleviated anxiety and depression-like behaviors, hinting at its therapeutic potential [7], [16].
However, the effects of taurine are complex and may vary depending on dosage and the presence of other substances. For instance, while taurine did not significantly counteract caffeine-induced anxiety in zebrafish [4], other studies indicated its potential for reducing anxiety under various stressors [3]. Overall, while the evidence points to plausible anxiolytic properties of taurine, particularly in specific contexts, further studies in humans are essential to confirm its efficacy as a formulated supplement for anxiety treatment.
Users have reported a range of improvements in their symptoms when using taurine. Many have found it effective in calming anxiety, with one user noting that it "effectively calms my anxiety" and expressing a desire to repurchase the product Read Review. Others mentioned that taurine not only helps with anxiety but also enhances sleep quality and overall relaxation, indicating it serves as a go-to supplement for many seeking a more restful night Read Review.
Additionally, some users highlighted taurine's broader health benefits, such as improvements in energy levels and support for heart health and liver function. One user particularly noted its effectiveness in controlling migraines and alleviating anxiety attacks, praising its natural ingredients Read Review. Overall, users report feeling more relaxed and vital while using taurine, contributing to a noticeable enhancement in their quality of life Read Review. However, it's important to note that individual results may vary, and what works for one person might not have the same effect on another.
Users have reported a strong positive correlation between L-Taurine supplementation and relief from anxiety symptoms. One user highlighted that they absolutely love Taurine for its calming effects on anxiety, stating, "I would definitely buy it again" Read Review. Another mentioned that Taurine serves as their go-to supplement for relaxation and improved sleep, suggesting it has a multifaceted role in anxiety management Read Review. Users noted significant improvements in their anxiety levels, with one mentioning its efficacy in alleviating anxiety attacks Read Review.
While user reviews focus on the positive outcomes associated with Taurine, they do not specify an ideal dosage for treating anxiety. Instead, reviews emphasize the general benefits and effectiveness of Taurine as a supplement for mental well-being Read Review. It is advisable for individuals interested in trying Taurine to conduct thorough research and possibly consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate dosage tailored to their needs.
9
Calms my anxiety
I absolutely love taurine. It effectively calms my anxiety. I would definitely buy it again.
7.5
Improved sleep quality
8 people found this helpful
Taurine is my go-to supplement for relaxation and sleep. As an antioxidant, it helps combat free radicals and oxidative stress. It enhances athletic performance, maintains energy levels, and supports liver function, particularly in reducing the effects of alcohol. I've noticed improvements in both my sleep and anxiety levels. Always do thorough research before introducing anything new into your body.
7.5
Beneficial for anxiety attacks
Taurine is remarkable for various health benefits, including heart health, eye function, and alleviating anxiety attacks. I appreciate this specific brand for its natural ingredients. Taurine is particularly effective for controlling migraines by absorbing excess glutamine, and I trust Solgar as a high-quality brand.
7.5
Supports mental health
Taurine is great for combating anxiety and depression! Its benefits extend to overall health, DNA support, and boosting energy. The size is convenient, and it effectively calms the nervous system while enhancing metabolism. The packaging is appealing, and the quality is reliable. I've been using it daily, and it contributes to my vitality and longevity.
5
Taurine may reduce anxiety effects
Taurine modulates behavioral effects of intermittent ethanol exposure without changing brain monoamine oxidase activity in zebrafish: Attenuation of shoal- and anxiety-like responses, and abolishment of memory acquisition deficit.
We explored whether taurine could help reduce anxiety and improve social behavior in zebrafish exposed to intermittent alcohol. The study involved exposing zebrafish to ethanol over several days, while some were given taurine afterwards.
Our findings indicated that taurine modestly decreased anxiety-like responses but significantly improved memory. Interestingly, taurine did not affect certain brain enzymes related to alcohol’s impact. Overall, these results suggest that taurine might be beneficial in managing some behavioral effects of alcohol, highlighting its potential use in neuroprotection.
8
Taurine reduces anxiety in mice
Long-term taurine supplementation regulates brain mitochondrial dynamics in mice.
We looked into how taurine, a common amino acid found in the brain, affects anxiety levels. Young mice were given different concentrations of taurine (0.25%, 0.5%, and 1%) in their drinking water for six months to see its potential benefits on memory, cognition, and mood.
Throughout the study, we observed that taurine had a significant effect on improving memory performance and reducing signs of anxiety and depression-like behavior in the mice. In addition to these behavioral changes, taurine also appeared to enhance mitochondrial function, which plays a crucial role in energy and cell health within the brain.
Interestingly, we found no significant difference in anxiety reduction between the various doses of taurine. This suggests that even lower amounts of taurine may be effective. Overall, our findings point towards taurine's potential as a therapeutic option for addressing anxiety and related neurological issues, although further research in humans is necessary to confirm these results.
9
Taurine reduces stress-induced anxiety
Amelioration of Repeated Restraint Stress-Induced Behavioral Deficits and Hippocampal Anomalies with Taurine Treatment in Mice.
In our study, we delved into how taurine, a naturally occurring antioxidant, impacts anxiety, particularly in the context of stress-induced behavioral changes. We used a group of Swiss albino male mice, which were subjected to 6 hours of restraint stress daily for 28 days to simulate chronic stress conditions. The mice were divided into four groups: a control group, a restraint stress group, a group receiving taurine while undergoing stress, and a taurine-only control group.
Our findings revealed that taurine treatment noticeably improved the anxiety-related behaviors of the stressed mice. We assessed this by using several tests designed to gauge behavioral responses, such as the elevated plus-maze and the forced swim test. In those subjected to restraint stress, taurine notably countered the negative effects, restoring normal behavior patterns.
We also found that taurine helped reduce oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus, a key brain area for mood regulation. This is significant since chronic stress can lead to various neurochemical imbalances that contribute to anxiety and depression. By inhibiting certain proteins linked to these processes, taurine demonstrated a protective effect against behavioral anomalies linked to stress.
Thus, our study presents taurine as a promising agent for alleviating anxiety associated with stress, potentially paving the way for future therapies targeting stress-induced conditions.
3
Taurine ineffective against caffeine anxiety
Anxiety-like behavior and whole-body cortisol responses to components of energy drinks in zebrafish ().
We examined how caffeine and taurine, common energy drink ingredients, influence anxiety in zebrafish. In our study, we exposed zebrafish to caffeine, taurine, or both, and then tested their behavior in new environments and light-dark conditions.
While caffeine increased anxiety-like behavior, taurine did not seem to help reduce these effects or change cortisol levels. Ultimately, taurine alone did not show any significant impact on anxiety, nor did it counteract the anxiety caused by caffeine. This suggests taurine’s role in reducing anxiety might be less effective than anticipated.
7
Taurine influences anxiety behaviors
Concomitant taurine exposure counteracts ethanol-induced changes in locomotor and anxiety-like responses in zebrafish.
We explored the effects of taurine (TAU) on anxiety-like behavior in zebrafish, especially when mixed with alcohol (EtOH). By exposing fish to various concentrations of TAU and EtOH, we aimed to determine how these substances influence locomotion and anxiety.
Surprisingly, we found that different doses of TAU interacted with EtOH in unique ways. Some doses helped reduce anxiety and improve movement, while others offered protection during high alcohol exposure. However, taurine's potential benefits depend on its concentration, highlighting its complex interaction with alcohol.
References
Marques LDS, Rocha YMD, Nascimento GAD, Santos SAAR, Vieira NCG, et al. Potential of the Blue Calm® food supplement in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal-induced anxiety in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Neurochem Int. 2024;175:105706. doi:10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105706
Stefanello FV, Müller TE, Franscescon F, Quadros VA, Souza TP, et al. Taurine modulates behavioral effects of intermittent ethanol exposure without changing brain monoamine oxidase activity in zebrafish: Attenuation of shoal- and anxiety-like responses, and abolishment of memory acquisition deficit. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2021;209:173256. doi:10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173256
Fontana BD, Duarte T, Müller TE, Canzian J, Ziani PR, et al. Concomitant taurine exposure counteracts ethanol-induced changes in locomotor and anxiety-like responses in zebrafish. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2020;237:735. doi:10.1007/s00213-019-05410-0
Alia AO, Petrunich-Rutherford ML. Anxiety-like behavior and whole-body cortisol responses to components of energy drinks in zebrafish (). PeerJ. 2019;7:e7546. doi:10.7717/peerj.7546
Mezzomo NJ, Fontana BD, Müller TE, Duarte T, Quadros VA, et al. Taurine modulates the stress response in zebrafish. Horm Behav. 2019;109:44. doi:10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.02.006
Mezzomo NJ, Silveira A, Giuliani GS, Quadros VA, Rosemberg DB. The role of taurine on anxiety-like behaviors in zebrafish: A comparative study using the novel tank and the light-dark tasks. Neurosci Lett. 2016;613:19. doi:10.1016/j.neulet.2015.12.037
Rezaei H, Wang HW, Tian W, Zhao J, Najibi A, et al. Long-term taurine supplementation regulates brain mitochondrial dynamics in mice. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2025;136:e14101. doi:10.1111/bcpt.14101
Miranda-Páez A, Marichal-Cancino BA, Sánchez-Castillo H, Vázquez-León P. Acute taurine reduced alcohol intake and preference in alcohol-experienced, but not in alcohol-näive rats by central mechanisms. Behav Brain Res. 2024;463:114892. doi:10.1016/j.bbr.2024.114892
Ichikawa S, Abe R, Fujimoto H, Higashi K, Zang L, et al. administration alters zebrafish anxiety-like behavior gut microbial taurine metabolism. Front Microbiol. 2023;14:1079187. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2023.1079187
Cruz GB, Vasquez MA, Cabañas E, Joseph JN, Skeen JC, et al. Developmental Lead Exposure in Rats Causes Sex-Dependent Changes in Neurobiological and Anxiety-Like Behaviors that Are Improved by Taurine Co-treatment. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2022;1370:461. doi:10.1007/978-3-030-93337-1_43
Neuwirth LS, Emenike BU, Cruz GB, Cabañas E, Vasquez MA, et al. Taurine-Derived Compounds Produce Anxiolytic Effects in Rats Following Developmental Lead Exposure. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2022;1370:445. doi:10.1007/978-3-030-93337-1_42
Chudzik A, Słowik T, Kochalska K, Pankowska A, Łazorczyk A, et al. Continuous Ingestion of JB-1 during Chronic Stress Ensures Neurometabolic and Behavioural Stability in Rats. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23. doi:10.3390/ijms23095173
Bhattacharjee A, Prajapati SK, Krishnamurthy S. Supplementation of taurine improves ionic homeostasis and mitochondrial function in the rats exhibiting post-traumatic stress disorder-like symptoms. Eur J Pharmacol. 2021;908:174361. doi:10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174361
Pyrzanowska J, Joniec-Maciejak I, Blecharz-Klin K, Piechal A, Mirowska-Guzel D, et al. Aspalathus linearis infusion affects hole-board test behaviour and amino acid concentration in the brain. Neurosci Lett. 2021;747:135680. doi:10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135680
Pulcinelli RR, de Paula LF, Nietiedt NA, Bandiera S, Hansen AW, et al. Taurine enhances voluntary alcohol intake and promotes anxiolytic-like behaviors in rats. Alcohol. 2020;88:55. doi:10.1016/j.alcohol.2020.07.004
Jangra A, Rajput P, Dwivedi DK, Lahkar M. Amelioration of Repeated Restraint Stress-Induced Behavioral Deficits and Hippocampal Anomalies with Taurine Treatment in Mice. Neurochem Res. 2020;45:731. doi:10.1007/s11064-019-02945-8
Francisco EDS, Mendes-da-Silva RF, de Castro CBL, Soares GSF, Guedes RCA. Taurine/Pilocarpine Interaction in the Malnourished Rat Brain: A Behavioral, Electrophysiological, and Immunohistochemical Analysis. Front Neurosci. 2019;13:981. doi:10.3389/fnins.2019.00981
Park E, Elidrissi A, Schuller-Levis G, Chadman KK. Taurine Partially Improves Abnormal Anxiety in Taurine-Deficient Mice. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2019;1155:905. doi:10.1007/978-981-13-8023-5_76
Neuwirth LS, Emenike BU, Barrera ED, Hameed N, Rubi S, et al. Assessing the Anxiolytic Properties of Taurine-Derived Compounds in Rats Following Developmental Lead Exposure: A Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pharmacological Pilot Study. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2019;1155:801. doi:10.1007/978-981-13-8023-5_69