Name: Natural Lecithin - Cell Growth and Function
Scientific Name:
Intro: Lecithin contains compounds that are responsible for maintaining the health of cell membranes. With insufficient lecithin, the cell wall may harden, thus limiting the flow of nutrients in or wastes out of the cell. This situation contributes to premature aging of the cells. Lecithin’s components are also involved in other crucial cell functions.
Lecithin is a mixture of phospholipids that is composed of fatty acids, glycerol, phosphorus, and choline or inositol. All living membranes in the body are composed of lecithin. Although Lecithin is a lipid, it is partly soluble in water and thus acts as an emulsifying agent. This is why many processed foods contain lecithin. Lecithin would be a wise addition to any diet. It is especially valuable for older adults.
Nutrient Content:
Benefits:
Comments: The Dietary Supplement Information Bureau recommends a dosage of approximately 2 gm of Lecithin a day in soft gel form. This dietary supplement is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines.
Caution: Lecithin is virtually nontoxic, but high intakes of lecithin or choline produce acute gastrointestinal distress, sweating, salivation, and anorexia.
Development of depression or supersensitivity of dopamine receptors and disturbance of the cholinergic-dopaminergic-serotinergic balance is a concern with prolonged, repeated intakes of large amounts of lecithin
Other side effects associated with the use of lecithin are generally mild and temporary. They include:
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Vomiting