This Is The Most Underrated Supplement That Actually Supports Men's Health

When it comes to men’s health, the conversation often centers around protein powders, creatine, or testosterone-boosting supplements (the first two of which actually have loads of research to back them up). 

Taurine is an amino acid, and it’s one of the most abundant amino acids in the body. 

Whereas most amino acids in the body are incorporated into muscle, connective tissues, enzymes, and even hormones, taurine is considered a free amino acid1. This means that it’s directly stored within different body tissues. Taurine is particularly concentrated in the brain, heart, and muscles. 

Having low amounts of taurine in the body is linked to suboptimal health, whereas optimal levels are linked to better aging. 

You get some taurine through eating protein-rich foods, and your body is able to synthesize taurine from scratch using other amino acids. But you can also get this compound via supplements. 

A 2023 research review4 notes that taurine has been shown to improve cardiac contractility (aka its ability to efficiently pump blood) and improve heart function. 

And there’s particular interest in its ability to lower blood pressure. One study5 of 120 people with prehypertension (higher than normal blood pressure not high enough to be classified as hypertension) found that taking 1.6 grams of taurine daily improved blood pressure over 12 weeks. 

Researchers also found that taurine improved how well blood vessels functioned and increased levels of hydrogen sulfide, a compound that helps relax blood vessels.

Taurine supplements have been extensively studied in humans for their role in exercise performance. As more and more men are looking to optimize their health, optimizing their fitness routine should also be top of mind. 

A 2021 review examined taurine’s impact on exercise performance across 19 studies. The findings suggest that taking 1 to 3 grams of taurine daily, about one to three hours before activity, can enhance endurance, strength, power output, and recovery—while also reducing muscle soreness and lactate levels.

Sex cells are especially vulnerable to oxidative stress. Taurine is also found in high concentrations in the male reproductive system. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities protect sperm from oxidative stress—a major factor in reduced sperm quality and motility. 

Taurine plays a critical role in supporting mitochondrial function and overall energy metabolism.

Only 12% of adults6 in the U.S. are considered metabolically healthy.

To reap taurine’s therapeutic benefits listed above, opting for a supplement that provides 2 grams of taurine per serving is a great place to start. 

Taurine is available in capsules and powders. Some powders even combine it with other beneficial ingredients for men’s health, including creatine.