Investigation of Some Pharmacological Effects of Caffeine and Taurine in Food Supplements

Abstract

In modern times in all age groups energy supplements containing different amounts of Caffeine and Taurine are applied. Caffeine is purine alkaloid, which stimulates central nervous system action, enhances the strength and frequency of the cardiac contractions and increases the excretion of urine. Taurine is a sulfur containing amino acid, which possesses many fundamental biological roles including: effect on synaptic transmission in the central nervous system, cardiotropic action, antioxidant and anticonvulsant activity, improvement of energy processes, stimulation of reparative processes in tissues, protection of eyes cataract, decrease of cholesterol and stimulation of immune system. The combination of Caffeine and Taurine provide benefit due to obtaining synergism of pharmacological effects in increasing of physical activity, stimulation of brain action, cognition, memory and attention. In connection with the significant enlarging of the consumption of energy drinks, especially by children and young people in recent years the requirements for regulation and control of the labeling of these products in many countries are enlarged. In many food additives Caffeine and Taurine are added in not labeled high concentrations, which can provoke and increase their side effects. High consumption of Caffeine enhances its adverse effects on body: anxiety, headache, insomnia, nervousness, respiratory disorders, tachycardia, tremor, dehydration. In children the adverse reactions of Caffeine in much lower doses than adults are occurred. In high concentrations Taurine has adverse effects on brain activity and can induce psoriasis. The result of combination of Caffeine and Taurine is associated with increased diuretic effect and loss of water and salts from the body, especially in children and young people. Because of these facts the quality and quantity control of included compounds in food supplements is important for their health safety.