Taurine participates in many biological functions, acting as a neurotransmitter in the brain, as a stabilizer of cell membranes and as a mediator in the transport of ions such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium and is, after GABA, the second-order inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. The amino acids alanine, glutamic acid and pantothenic acid inhibit the metabolism of taurine, while Vitamins A and B6, zinc and manganese contribute to the synthesis of taurine and in particular cysteine ​​and Vitamin B6 are the components most directly related to the synthesis of taurine. The gallbladder uses taurine to form taurocholic acid, one of two bile acids required for the breakdown of fat in the small intestine, while taurine also participates in the excretion of cholesterol and bilirubin in the bile. High alcohol consumption increases taurine losses, while low levels of taurine are found in vegetarians and people who follow a diet low in dairy and meat products.