The brain is a very important yet delicate organ of the body. It is the part of the body which manages almost, if not all, functions of the human system. It is the organ that receives input from different sources and allows us to think of our response towards such stimulus. The brain also makes reasoning and judgment possible. The brain, both by structure and function, depends on a number of chemicals. One of these is Phosphatidylcholine.

Phosphatidylcholine is a phospholipid which is a primary element of the body’s biological membranes. It is produced from the biological compound called lecithin. The components of Phosphatidylcholine are fatty acids, phosphate complex and choline. Inside the body, Phosphatidylcholine is metabolized into these components before it can be utilized by the cells.

Phosphatidylcholine is an important element for brain health. It particularly helps the brain because of its lecithin content. Lecithin is considered to be the greatest source of choline which is a chemical required for the production of the brain neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. This neurochemical is highly significant because it functions both on the peripheral and central nervous system. It is also the only brain chemical that acts on the motor division of the somatic nervous system and on every autonomic ganglia. Phosphatidylcholine is also considered to be the important precursor of many hormones and works as a coenzyme for various biological processes. Many studies have revealed that Phosphatidylcholine facilitates in cellular signaling, memory enhancing and accelerating other brain activities.

Other benefits of Phosphatidylcholine include:

1. Lipotropic Effect. Phosphatidylcholine assists in the breakdown of fats by facilitating movement of fats inside and outside of the cells. Due to its fat – metabolizing effect, Phosphatidylcholine is required for healthy hepatic functioning. If fats are blocked within the cells of the liver, these fats become harmful to the system by blocking the metabolizing property of the liver. This condition may cause a serious disease like liver cirrhosis.

2. Cell Structure. Phosphatidylcholine, with its high level in choline, is required for the integrity of cell membranes especially that of the brain and spinal cord’s cells.

3. Increases Cholesterol Solubility. Phosphatidylcholine is claimed to have cholesterol – dissolving effect. This is important because it decreases the risk of cholesterol – related diseases such as atherosclerosis. Phosphatidylcholine can also remove the deposited cholesterol in tissues and blood vessels thus preventing aggregation of platelets on the area which may lead to poor tissue perfusion or even heart attack and stroke.

Phosphatidylcholine can be acquired from soy beans, whole grains, legumes, egg yolk, meat and organ meats most especially liver. Studies show that individuals typically obtain three to six grams of Phosphatidylcholine everyday though eggs, soy beans, meat and organ meats. The other mentioned sources contain only a little amount. Phosphatidylcholine is also available in supplements in the form of liquid, capsules or powder.

Phosphatidylcholine content varies from brand to brand. It is best to carefully check labels and legal approvals of content before purchasing. Lecithin supplements available in the market usually contain about 10 to 70% of Phosphatidylcholine.

Author Bio: Boost brain and memory function with lecithin rich in Phosphatidylcholine. VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Phosphatidylcholine, Lecithin, Improve Brain Function, Increase Memory