Lecithin

Why lecithin is good for you

Lecithin is a fatty substance which is found in high concentrations in the cell membrane (phospholipid). Every living cell of the body requires lecithin because of its requirement in creating cell membranes. Lecithin is both water and oil soluble and regulates the movement of fats and nutrients entering and leaving the cell.

Lecithin is required for a whole range of body functions, including infant and foetal development and as an aid in reproduction, is essential in keeping the liver and gall bladder healthy and for heart health.

The body uses lecithin both for the proper formation of bile (the body's main emulsifying compound), and as an emulsifying agent itself. Lecithin helps the body use and absorb fat-soluble nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K.

Lecithin is an important precursor to the main neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, which plays an important role in memory and muscles control. Myelin sheaths that protect the brain, spine and thousands of nerves in the body are almost two-thirds lecithin.

Soy lecithin, a constituent included in most processed and packaged foods is included as a natural emulsifier or stabiliser, is extracted during the processing of soybean oil. It promotes solidity in margarines and gives a consistent texture to salad dressing and other creamy products.

The body produces its own lecithin in the liver.


Important lecithin facts

* The brain consists of 30% lecithin
* Lecithin is an excellent source of the vitamin B cofactor, choline (choline is part of the lecithin molecule)
* Around 20% of the lecithin found in plants and natural foods consists of phosphatidylcholine
* Choline is so vital in infant development that all baby formula must contain this nutrient
* Lecithin is a phospholipid, which is part of cell membranes
* Lecithin granules contain higher concentrations of phosphatidylcholine
* Lecithin is a good source of linolenic acid

CAUTIONS

* People with bipolar disorder and depression - should not use lecithin as it can worse then depressive stage of the illness
* People with any psychiatric condition - should get medical advice before taking lecithin