Lecithin

2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29

Lecithin is a complex organic compound. It belongs to the group of phospholipids (phosphatides), which are chemically complex esters of glycerol with fatty acids. Includes phosphoric acid and nitrogenous substance.

The main ingredients of lecithin are choline (vitamin B4) and inositol (vitamin B8). Choline and inositol burn fat and prevent fatty degeneration of the liver.

Functions of lecithin

In fact, lecithin is a natural component of all cells in the body. It is a source of essential fatty acids, choline and inositol, and an essential component of brain and nerve tissue. It is found in the protective barrier on the inside of the stomach.

Lecithin is a substance of purely plant origin, derived from soy and taken as a dietary supplement, contributes to the proper functioning of a number of processes in the body.

Lecithins themselves are phospholipids that can be metabolized, which means that they must be renewed either by synthesis in the body itself or by taking them as a dietary supplement. In the human body they are 1% of total body weight. They are found in higher concentrations in the brain and in the spinal cord.

Lecithin as an emulsifier it supports the absorption and digestion of fats, the transport of fat-soluble vitamins. Protects and supports the work of the liver. Lecithin promotes the emulsification of bile, acts as a solvent for cholesterol, facilitates its transport through blood vessels, and at the same time improves their patency and blood flow. In combination with vitamin E, lecithin is an anti-aging drug.

The soybean lecithin is a natural substance with the main ingredients being choline and inositol. Choline plays a key role in building the structure of biological membranes and is with vitamins. Inositol is obtained in greater or lesser quantities from foods of plant origin. Large amounts are contained in soy, and large amounts of inositol are deposited in the human brain.

The function of choline and inositol is to be catalysts and to participate in the breakdown of fats. Lecithin strengthens the work of the heart muscle. Virtually everyone experiences an increased need for lecithin because of their diet, which in most cases is high in fat.

Lecithin is a well-known successful tool for eliminating or reducing joint pain. For people who suffer from such problems, lecithin is a mandatory dietary supplement. It will remove the severe pain and make them feel the joy of movement. In this regard, lecithin is also useful for people who are sensitive to changes over time.

For active athletes, lecithin is a well-known supplement. In addition to relieving discomfort and pain in the joints, it helps to achieve better sports results.

Lecithin is also very useful for hair because it gives a healthy hair color and reduces hair loss. A good remedy is against the appearance of eczema. In addition, it enhances concentration and the ability to remember, as well as has a calming effect on the nervous system.

Lecithin composition

In supplements containing processed lecithin contains the natural phospholipid phosphatidyl choline, as well as in smaller quantities phospholipids: phosphatidyl ethanolamine, phosphatidyl inositol and phosphatidic acid (phosphatidate).

Lecithin is available in capsules of 1200 mg, and the price is about BGN 15. It is also taken in the form of granules. Lecithin supports the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, K, increases the body's resistance, stimulates the formation of erythrocytes and hemoglobin.

How to use lecithin

Take 1 tbsp. granules mixed with yogurt or milk, or juice, 2 times a day. For adolescents - 1 tsp. per day, during or after meals. The granulate can also be swallowed dry and then rinsed with a little liquid. With excessive physical and mental stress, or after an illness, the quantities can double. For children, the quantities are usually halved.

In fact, the daily dose of phosphatidyl choline is determined by the percentage of active substance in a given product. It is best to follow the instructions on the package, as the percentage of phosphatidyl choline can vary from 10 to 35% in lecithin.

Benefits of lecithin

Lecithin is very useful in anemia and in the period after illness. Lecithin is a substance that helps transport, convert and break down fat in the liver. Maintains cholesterol levels in the gallbladder in soluble form, thus preventing the formation of gallstones.

Nutritional supplements with lecithin play a key role in the transmission of nerve impulses, and have a beneficial effect on the skin, helps to improve the function of the heart muscle and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.

Lecithin helps maintain optimal levels of cholesterol and fat in the body, helps protect the liver from accumulating fat in it, helps to improve brain function: memory, concentration.

Lecithin is very important for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and is important as a dietary supplement for the elderly. It is used in diseases of the veins, in varicose veins, in osteoporosis, by activating phosphorus in the body, which is part of the bones. It is used in the rehabilitation of the liver cells of alcoholics, to detoxify the liver.

Lecithin strengthens the sheath of nerve cells, accelerates the metabolism of fats (their burning), and has an anti-stress effect. Lecithin has a beneficial effect on PMS, and also protects the breasts and lining of the uterus.

Lecithin "cleanses" the walls of blood vessels and strengthens the heart muscle, so in case of heart problems, you can take such a supplement.

Lecithin is said to have a positive effect on sexual activity by normalizing the function of the gonads. Lecithin makes hair beautiful and reduces hair loss, improves memory, and due to its sedative effect is a helper in nervousness and depression.

Lecithin overdose

At normal doses (specified by the manufacturer of the packaging) there are no proven side effects. At a dose of more than 30 g per day, gastrointestinal problems, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, disorder are possible.