Everything you need to know about lecithin
Lecithin describes a group of fatty substances found in plant and animal tissues. Lecithin is essential for proper biological function. A commercial form of what is lecithin is commonly used in the preparation of food, cosmetics, and medications, as it extends shelf life and acts as an emulsifier. Lecithin supplements can also be used to treat high cholesterol and digestive issues, and to prevent clogged milk ducts, during breast-feeding. One of the main components of lecithin, phosphatidylcholine (PC), may be responsible for some of what is lecithin’s reported health benefits.
Fast facts on lecithin:
1.Most lecithin supplements are made from soybeans.
2.Lecithin supplements are used to treat several medical conditions and health issues, but research on their effectiveness is limited.
3.There are no well-documented interactions between lecithin and any medications, drugs, or medical conditions.
4.People with allergies to eggs or soy should check the source of the lecithin in their supplements and food before consuming.
Although lecithin occurs naturally in many foods, lecithin supplements are typically derived from eggs, soy, or sunflower seeds. Lecithin is also obtained from canola, cottonseed, or animal fats. Soy is one of the most widely-grown crops in the United States, and 94 percent of it is genetically modified. Soy is a cost-effective source of what is lecithin. Chemicals, including acetone and hexane, are used to extract the lecithin from soybean oil.
However, lecithin derived from sunflower oil is becoming increasingly popular, possibly due to requirements to declare allergens in foods. Also, those who wish to avoid genetically modified crops may choose sunflower lecithin. The extraction process is typically gentler and is carried out by cold pressing rather than with chemical solvents.
Lecithin is “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). When taken in reasonable amounts, it is unlikely to cause adverse reactions. It is best to get lecithin through food. Supplements are not monitored by the FDA for safety or purity. People should research the supplements and the brand names before taking them. If someone has high cholesterol or a history of heart disease, they should discuss the supplement with their doctor.
While the Canadian Breastfeeding Foundation recommend lecithin for women who are breast-feeding, there needs to be more research on lecithin supplementation, during pregnancy and lactation.
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