Lecithin is a fatty substance that is required by the body to make a class of molecules called phospholipids, such as phosphatidylcholine and choline. These phospholipids are absolutely essential for building cell membranes and for transportation of nutrients into and out of cells.

The key health benefits of these lecithin-derived phospholipids include their ability to:

• Protect the Liver
  These phospholipids, especially phosphatidylcholine, can slow down the flow of fats and cholesterol through the liver and thus prevent the build-up of fats in that organ (a condition called fatty liver, which decreases the liver's ability to filter out toxins).
  
  
• Prevent and Treat Memory Loss
  Phospholipids are a main structural component of brain cells - indeed, phosphatidylcholine is a neuron (or nerve cell)-building nutrient that can help slow down and treat memory loss.
  
  Phosphatidylcholine is also a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in the brain which level drops off with age. This decrease in neurotransmitter level is associated with age-related memory loss.
  

Taking lecithin is the easiest way to make sure that your body has ample supply of phosphatidylcholine, choline, and other essential phospholipids that it needs.

Select Scientific References

• Canty DJ and Zeisel SH. Lecithin and choline in human health and disease. Nutr Rev 1994; 52(10):327-39.
• Wood JL and Allison RG. Effects of consumption of choline and lecithin on neurological and cardiovascular systems. Fed Proc 1982; 41(14):3015-21.