So the big question first. What on earth is it?! Phosphatidylcholine, or PC for short, comes from lecithin.
I know, I know another crazy word, it's going to get better just stay with me.
Lecithin is an oily substance belonging to a group of nutrients known as phospholipids, which are water-soluble compounds composed of fatty acids, phosphorus, and nitrogen. The fatty acid portion of lecithin consists of linoleic acid or a combination of linoleic and linolenic acids, both of which are essential in the human diet. The phosphorus portion of lecithin is in the form of phosphatidylcholine (PC), and the terms "lecithin" and "phosphatidylcholine" are used interchangeably in medical literature. PC is generally considered to be the most beneficial compound found in lecithin because it is a rich source of choline, a member of the B-vitamin complex involved in many vital biological functions.
Dietary sources of choline are found primarily in the form of phosphatidylcholine from lecithin. Good sources of lecithin include liver, red meat, whole grains, legumes, and egg yolks (in fact, the term "lecithin" is derived from the Greek word for egg yolk, lekithos). Free choline (without the phosphatidyl group) is found in whole grains, liver, soy, and in some vegetables (especially cauliflower and cabbage). Supplemental sources of PC labeled as "lecithin" usually contain 10-20 percent PC. More concentrated supplements (containing about 35 percent PC) are usually labeled as "phosphatidylcholine", like our Jarrow Formulas Mega PC-35. Other supplemental forms of choline include choline salts such as choline bitartrate, citrate, or chloride.
PC serves plenty of uses, Choline is a crucial component of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for normal brain function. Phosphatidylcholine is a key structural component of cellular membranes and also plays an important role in the transport of fats throughout the bloodstream. As a constituent of bile, PC helps prevent fatty buildup in the liver and maintain gallbladder function. Some other uses for PC include; preventing gallstones,treating hepatitis, eczema, gallbladder disease, circulation problems, high cholesterol, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS); for improving the effectiveness of kidney dialysis; for boosting the immune system; and for preventing aging.and assists with cardiovascular health.
Come check out Jarrow Formulas Mega PC-35 and take your healthy living to the next level.
Till next time,
Mikie
