| Choline | |||||
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Choline is part of the vitamin B group of vitamins - it is a B vitamin cofactor as it works closely with several of the B Vitamins to enable them to function even more effectively.
Choline is often known as "the brain food", as it is necessary to make a acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is crucial for proper brain function and to also to help make the fatty membranes of the brain cells (phosphatidylcholine).
- While the body can make its own choline, it is also important to get enough in the diet too
- Choline also works together with methionine
- Protects the liver from accumulating too much fat around it, preventing it from working properly
- One of the highest sources of choline is lecithin
Choline is important for brain health and proper brain function. It is necessary to protect against developinga "fatty liver".
Last reviewed: 14 January 2007 || Last updated: 21 August 2007
Related Articles
references
- Osiecki, Henry, The Nutrient Bible 2002, BioConcepts Publishing
- Osiecki, Henry. The Physician's Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. 6th edition, 2001, BioConcepts Publishing
- Rolfes SR, Pinna K, Whitney E. Understanding Normal and Clinical Nutrition. 7th Edition, 2005. Brooks Cole Publishing
To learn more, go to the following web sites:
- Food Standards Australia and New Zealand
- Dieticians Association of Australia
- Nutrient Reference Values (Australia)
NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
