Phosphatidylcholine
What Is It?
Phosphatidylcholine, or PC, is a polar lipid molecule that is a naturally occurring, integral component of the cellular membrane, adding fluidity and strength to cells. PC serves as a source of choline, an important nutrient for liver function and a precursor of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Dietary sources of PC include soy lecithin.*
Uses For Phosphatidylcholine
- Liver Health: In a multi-centered, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted in Germany, investigators reported that polyunsaturated PC helped support liver health by promoting healthy plasma alanine aminotransferase activity and was well tolerated. This molecule also plays a significant role in the healthy transport and metabolism of lipids and lipid carrier molecules. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial suggested that oral lecithin supplementation may help support healthy hepatic fat metabolism by providing a source of choline. Animal studies also report that soybean PC may promote healthy lipid metabolism in the liver. Additional animal studies indicate that PC promotes healthy liver and pancreatic antioxidant activity.*
- Cognitive Support: PC has been studied in the context of cognitive support and moderating stress. A long-term double blind placebo controlled trial suggested that high dose soy lecithin may reduce mild memory loss associated with aging. A more recent animal study provided data indicating that oral lecithin supplementation helped support plasma choline levels, which was linked to an adaptogenic effect when the animals were exposed to various stresses.*
What Is The Source?
Pure Encapsulations Phosphatidylcholine is derived from soy lecithin, a source that is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, as opposed to animal-derived sources, which tend to be much higher in saturated fatty acids. There is no detectable GMO material in this product.
Recommendations
Pure Encapsulations recommends taking 2-8 capsules per day, in divided doses, with meals.
Are There Any Side Effects Or Precautions?
If pregnant or lactating, consult your physician before taking this product. At several grams per day, some people may experience abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or nausea.
Are There Any Potential Adverse Drug Interactions?
At this time, there are no known adverse reactions when taken in conjunction with medications.
References:
1. Kumar R, Divekar HM, Gupta V, Srivastava KK. Antistress and adaptogenic activity of lecithin supplementation. J Altern Complement Med 2002 Aug;8(4):487-92.
2. Mourelle M, Guarner F, Malagelada JR. Polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine prevents stricture formation in a rat model of colitis. Gastroenterology 1996 Apr;110(4):1093-7.
3. Niederau C, Strohmeyer G, Heintges T, Peter K, Gopfert E. Polyunsaturated phosphatidyl-choline and interferon alpha for treatment of chronic hepatitis B and C: a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo- controlled trial. Hepatogastroenterology 1998 May-Jun;45(21):797-804.
4. Mastellone I I, Polichetti E, Gres S, de la Maisonneuve C, Domingo N, Marin V V, Lorec A, Farnarier C, Portugal H, Kaplanski G, Chanussot F. Dietary soybean phosphatidylcholines lower lipidemia: mechanisms at the levels of intestine, endothelial cell, and hepato-biliary axis. J Nutr Biochem 2000 Sep 1;11(9):461-466.
5. Little A, Levy R, Chuaqui-Kidd P, Hand D. A double-blind, placebo controlled trial of high-dose lecithin in Alzheimer's disease. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1985 Aug;48(8):736-42.
6. Aleynik SI, Leo MA, Aleynik MK, Lieber CS. Alcohol-induced pancreatic oxidative stress: protection by phospholipid repletion. Free Radic Biol Med 1999 Mar;26(5-6):609-19.
7. Buchman AL, Dubin M, Jenden D, Moukarzel A, Roch MH, Rice K, Gornbein J, Ament ME, Eckhert CD. Lecithin increases plasma free choline and decreases hepatic steatosis in long-term total parenteral nutrition patients. Gastroenterology 1992 Apr;102(4 Pt 1):1363-70.
8. Healthnotes Clinical Essentials. Copyright 2003. Healthnotes, Inc.
For educational purposes only. Consult your physician for any health problems.
*This is a statement of nutritional support. This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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