Aids in the manufactures the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and is the main components of our cell membranes as phosphatidylcholine (PC). Needed for proper metabolism of fats. Can be manufactured from amino acid methionine or serine. Recently become an essential nutrient. (Murray 2001)
Deficiency Signs and Symptoms
Fatty infiltration of the liver and signs of liver dysfunction.
Food sources
Grains, legumes, egg yolk as lecithin (PC), cauliflower and lettuce, liver, soy.
Main Uses
As PC:
Liver disorders (350 – 500 mg) – hepatitis, alcohol induced fatty liver, cirrhosis, diabetic fatty liver, drug induced damage.
High cholesterol – increases solubility so decreases ability to cause atherosclerosis.
Alzheimer’s disease – increases accumulation of acetylcholine, improves memory.
Safety
At high doses phosphatidylcholine may cause anorexia, nausea, abdominal bloating, gastointestinal tract pain, diarrhoea. Do not use in depression. (Murray 2001)