Choline (Vitamin B6 or Bp)

Also known as: Lecithin is the scientific name for choline. It may also be known as: Vitamin B6, Vitamin Bp, Pyridoxine, Pyridoxal, Pyridoxamine, Kelecin, Lecitihol, Vegilecithin, Vitrellin, Phosphatidylcholine.

Choline is an organic compound known to be an essential nutrient and is typically classified within the Vitamin B complex.

This natural compound is found in the lipids that make up cell membranes and neurotransmitter chemicals that allow neurons to communicate with each other within humans and other organisms.

Choline is a naturally-occurring phospholipid.

It is a compound that contains both water-soluble components and fatty acids.

Phospholipids can mix with both fats and water. This vitamin is found in the brain and made in the liver.

Home Remedies using Choline:

Benefits and Uses of Choline:

Choline is a necessary part of human cell membranes and is also involved in the transportation of cholesterol in the body. Choline possibly helps to keep cholesterol deposits from forming in blood vessels.

It is also required for the production of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter needed for memory, other brain functions, and muscle control.

Choline is found to be helpful for:

• Protection against liver damage
• Lowering cholesterol levels
• May have anti-cancer properties
• When applied to dry skin, it acts as a skin softener
• Beneficial for disorders of the nervous system such as Parkinson’s disease and tardive dyskinesia (uncontrollable muscle movements)
• Commercially, lecithin is used in foods, medicines, and cosmetics to keep the fat and water ingredients from separating
• It may be used as base for injected, oral, and topical medications

Choline is available in the following over the counter forms:

• Tablet
• Capsule
• Powder or granule form
• Combined with liquid muliti-vitamin formulas

Choline can be found in:

• Egg yolks
• Leguimes
• Meat
• Milk
• Whole grain cereals

Side Effects of Choline:

Choline or Lecithin is non-toxic at dietary and supplemental levels; however, low blood pressure may result from high, prolonged doses of choline.

Other side effects attributed to lecithin or choline are general gastrointestinal upset.

Also, when taken in high amounts choline can give breath, sweat or urine a fishy odor.