Taurine is a type of chemical called an aminosulfonic acid. It occurs naturally in the body. The best food sources are meat, fish, and eggs. Taurine has important functions in the heart and brain. It helps support nerve growth. It may also benefit people with heart failure by lowering blood pressure and calming the nervous system. This may help prevent heart failure from getting worse. People take taurine for congestive heart failure (CHF) and swelling of the liver (hepatitis). It is also used for obesity, athletic performance, fatigue, diabetes, and many other conditions.