Lecithin contains phospholipids such as phosphatidylcholine. 1 Phospholipids are a type of fat. 2 Your body converts phosphatidylcholine to choline. Choline supports the cellular structure in the brain, nerves and organs.
Lecithin supplements are often derived from soybeans, sunflower seeds, canola, egg yolks, or other animal products such as fish. Agricultural (growing) conditions can determine the fatty acid and phospholipid content of plant-derived products. 1 Lecithin is also used as an emulsifier in cooking; it helps stabilize ingredients that do not mix easily, such as oil and water.
Lecithin is added to topical (on the skin) products as well as supplements and medications. 3456 It has also been used as part of a placebo (a treatment of no therapeutic value given to participants in a clinical trial as part of a control group) in a randomized controlled trial 7
This article examines the uses, sources, and evidence for lecithin's effectiveness. It also discusses possible side effects, dosage, and what to look for when buying lecithin supplements.
Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not regulated in the United States, which means the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve products for their safety and effectiveness before they go on the market. When possible, choose a supplement that has been tested by a trusted third party, such as the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab, or NSF. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, that doesn't mean they're necessarily safe or generally effective for everyone. Therefore, it is critical to discuss with your healthcare provider any supplements you plan to take and check for potential interactions with other supplements or medications.
supplementary facts
Active ingredients: fatty acids, phosphatidylcholine what is lecithin
Alias: α-phosphatidylcholine, E322, lecithin, Lecithinum ex soya, ovolecithin, sojalecithin, soybean lecithin, soybean lecithin, soybean lecithin, soybean lecithin, vegilecithin, lecithin, lecithin
Legal Status: Over-the-Counter (OTC) Dietary Supplement in the United States; Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)8
Suggested dose: Varies by condition
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS: Children; possible interactions with prescription drugs, herbs and supplements
Uses of Lecithin
Supplement use should be individualized and reviewed by a healthcare professional such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure or prevent disease.
Lecithin is not a single substance. It contains a group of chemicals, including phospholipids. 9 Lecithin has been studied for use in a variety of conditions.
dementia or cognitive impairment
Researchers performed a meta-analysis (collection of studies) on the effects of lecithin on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's dementia, and memory problems. 10 While the results suggest that lecithin may have a positive effect on self-reported memory problems, the results for the treatment of dementia are less clear.
Another study showed that lecithin was equivalent to about 40 milligrams (mg) per day of tacrine, an oral enzyme called an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, used to treat Alzheimer's disease. 11 However, the content of lecithin is unknown.
One review suggests that choline may help in damage caused by head injuries. 12 Although choline is part of phosphatidylcholine, which is part of lecithin, further research is needed on the specific role of lecithin.
More research is needed to confirm these results.
