Lecithin and Choline

The term “lecithin” has been used by medical researchers extensively, yet for us, regular individuals, we barely know what it means. For starters, lecithin is a type of substance that has been purified. It is a common ingredient in various nutritional supplements and multivitamin capsules.

When medical researchers say “lecithin,” they are actually referring to phosphatidyl choline (PC). Now, this substance is in line with other special fat-soluble substances, known collectively as phospholipids.

Phospholipids are essential components of the body. They are found in cell structures, specifically the membrane. The nutritional supplements labeled as “lecithin” you find in the counter of various drugstores usually has about 10-20% phosphatidyl choline. There are also supplements that contain pure PC and these are the common substances used in medical research.

Choline, without the phosphatidyl group, is also available by itself and found in most foods and supplements. However, a high amount of pure choline in the body is undesirable, unless of course you want to smell like fish. For this reason, pure choline is only available in small amounts found in multivitamin supplements.

What does PC do?

The main function of PC in the body is to supply choline. The cell membrane needs this substance to maintain its integrity and to facilitate the movement of fats in and out of cells. The neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, also needs PC for its supply of choline in order to perform its function well. Acetylcholine is needed so the brain can function normally, particularly in infants.

The human body can actually synthesize is own supply of choline, however, due to a variety of reasons, this supply may run low. For this reason, additional amounts are needed from the diet. PC has been used in a number of preliminary studies. It is currently being examined for its positive effects on a wide range of neurological and psychiatric disorders.

The Functions of Lecithin

Lecithin is manufactured by the body and widely found in many animal and plant-based foods, such as eggs, liver, peanuts, soybeans, and wheat germ. As a fatty substance, lecithin is used as an additive in a variety of processed foods, such as ice cream, margarine, and salad dressings. Because of it is fat-based, lecithin can be used to help blend or emulsify fats with water.

Lecithin is an excellent source of phosphotidyl choline, a B vitamin. When the body breaks down this substance down, choline is produced. Lecithin and its purified extract are now commonly recommended as treatment for liver, nerve, and a variety of other conditions, including multiple sclerosis and memory loss.

In conjunction with choline, lecithin helps form cell membranes and is heavily involved in human reproduction and infant development. Lecithin helps transport fats and nutrients into and out of cells. These nutrients play a vital role in keeping the body healthy.

Other uses of lecithin and choline include treatment against memory loss or impairment, protection of the liver from alcohol abuse and hepatitis, and fortify the kidneys and gall bladders from gallstones.

Product Information

There are no recommended dosages of lecithin and choline. However, several scientific studies have garnered successful results by using 550 mg a day for men and 425 mg for women.

The best source of choline you can get is PC supplements. Taking PC as a supplement is the most effective way of increasing levels of this substance in the body. Absorption of PC can be enhanced by taking it with meals.