Ellen Campbell -Grizzle
THERE IS renewed search for evidence of the health benefits of lecithin. This fatty substance is manufactured in the body and also widely found in many animal and plant-based foods. It is an excellent source of phosphatidylcholine (PC) that breaks down to choline in the body. Choline is essential to every living cell in the body. It protects and insulates the protective sheaths around the brain, spine and thousands of miles of nerves.
Without choline, cell membranes harden and prevent important nutrients from entering and leaving the cell. Maurice Gobley first discovered the substance in 1850. He named the substance with the Greek word lekithos, which means egg yolks, the primary source of the commercially-produced nutrient at that time.
Lecithin-rich foods include egg yolks, liver, soybeans, grains, grape juice, wheat germ, fish, legumes, cabbage, yeast and peanuts. Today, soybeans provide the majority of lecithin used to make supplements. Its emulsifying properties make it a popular additive in processed foods, such as ice cream, margarine mayonnaise, chocolate and salad dressings.
Suppliers of lecithin promote the product to aid memory function, promote the health of heart and blood vessels, support liver function and as beneficial to human reproduction, foetal development, physical and athletic performance. There is now emerging evidence to support some specific health benefits.
MEMORY LOSS
Research has shown that PC is a valuable nerve-building nutrient that might be able to slow down or reverse memory loss. It is fat-soluble and is able to serve as a major building block for brain cells. PC supplies choline to the brain where it is used to manufacture acetylcholine. Levels of acetylcholine dwindle with age and this decline is often linked to age-related memory impairment.
USE WITH NIACIN
There is strong evidence to suggest that lecithin will benefit persons taking niacin or nicotinic acid to treat high cholesterol. The niacin treatment may deplete choline and, therefore, an increased amount of this nutrient is necessary in the diet. Lecithin is composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids and this may also lower cholesterol.
PROTECTS THE LIVER FROM ALCOHOL ABUSE
PC speeds the flow of fats and cholesterol through the liver and prevents the build up of fats or toxins in the liver. A 10-year study in baboons has shown that lecithin prevents liver scarring and cirrhosis. There are no human studies so far.
OTHER BENEFITS
It has proved beneficial to persons who suffer from Tardive Dyskinesia (an involuntary movement disorder). Lecithin helps the body to utilise vitamins A, D, E and K. Recently, it has been marketed for those who want to get rid of a little excess fat and improve muscle endurance. However, the evidence on this point appears inconclusive. It is now being tested for use in alcoholism, prevention of gallstones, hepatitis, multiple sclerosis and stroke.
CAUTIONS
PC, lecithin or choline supplements increase levels of acetylcholine and should not be used by persons suffering from bipolar disorder or depression. High doses cause sweating, nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhoea, a fishy body odour or a heart rhythm abnormality.
Supplements are sold in capsules, powder or granules. Products may be swallowed as a pill, mixed into health shakes or sprinkled on food. Lecithin becomes rancid very easily. Make sure that you check expiry dates closely. After opening for use, close the container tightly and store in a refrigerator. If you are taking lecithin, make sure that you are taking the amount that is right for you. Ask your pharmacist about commonly recommended daily doses.
Ellen Campbell-Grizzle, president, Caribbean Association of Pharmacists; director, information and research, National Council on Drug Abuse; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
