Taurine is an amino acid that serves as an neuromodulator, a special kind of neurotransmitter that impacts the effects of other neurotransmitters. In doing this, taurine helps to maintain your body's electrolyte balance and hydration, regulation of the central nervous system and supporting eye and visual health. New research shows that taurine also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels. However, energy drinks are not a great source of taurine as the other ingredients interfere with taurine's effects and often are very high in sugar and caffeine.