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Home -> Shop By Store -> Phosphatidyl Choline
Phosphatidyl Choline
What is Phosphatidyl Choline?
Phosphatidyl choline is the active ingredient in lecithin. Lecithin is a fatty substance that is needed for a wide variety of crucial bodily functions, such as building cell membranes and helping nutrients move in and out of cells. Phosphatidyl choline, which is an important source of the B vitamin Choline, only comprises about 15% of the lecithin that we derive from natural food sources; however, lecithin supplements can contain a wide range of between 10% to 98% of this active ingredient. The higher the concentration, the more expensive the supplement. It is important for the structural integrity of cell membranes, methyl metabolism, cholinergic neurotransmission, transmembrane signaling, and lipid-cholesterol transport and metabolism. Basically, this means choline is integral in controlling fat and cholesterol buildup in the body, regulating the kidneys, liver and gallbladder, and increasing the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps the brain store and recall information. Choline deficiency can lead to hypertension, arteriosclerosis, cirrhosis and fatty degeneration of the liver.
Phosphatidyl Choline benefits?
Phosphatidyl choline breaks down fat deposits in the body, making it valuable in the prevention of atherosclerosis and heart disease. It is also essential to the liver, and helps strengthen its role in removing toxins from the body. As such, people afflicted with hepatitis and cirrhosis may find it beneficial. It can also enhance gallbladder health, and prevent gallstones.
Phosphatidyl choline is broken down into choline in the body, and a lack of choline will adversely affect healthy adults quickly. Studies have shown, in fact, that within 30 days of a choline deficient diet, indications of liver problems will manifest.
New and promising studies also show that this supplement may enhance memory and help people who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. However, as of now, these tests have been confined to rats, and not human subjects.
Where is it found?
Choline, the major constituent of PC, is found in soybeans, liver, oatmeal, cabbage, and cauliflower. Soybeans, egg yolks, meat, and some vegetables contain PC. Lecithin (containing 10–20% PC) is added to many processed foods in small amounts for the purpose of maintaining texture consistency.
Side Effects
With several grams of choline per day, some people will experience abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or nausea. Supplementing choline in large amounts (over 1,000 mg per day) can lead to a fishy body odor. PC does not have this effect. Depression has been reported as a side effect in people taking large amounts of choline, such as 9 grams per day.
Who is likely to be deficient?
Although choline deficiencies have been artificially induced in people, little is known about human deficiency in the real world.
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