Choline
Description
Choline is an amino acid derivative. This molecule plays the role of a precursor of phospholipids, and in particular of phosphatidylcholine, the most abundant phospholipid in the body's cell membranes. Phosphatidylcholine also acts with the bile acids present in the bile to facilitate the absorption of lipids.
Choline is also the precursor of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in brain and muscle function and contributing to neurological health.
In addition, a choline deficiency is generally responsible for the accumulation of fat in the liver. Therefore, a low concentration of choline in the body is suspected to be related to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH).
Similarly, in pregnant women, choline deficiencies are linked to abnormalities in the development of the child's brain, the repercussions of which can be serious and lasting. However, medical advice is essential before taking choline during pregnancy.
In addition, the metabolic pathway of choline can also lead to the biosynthesis of citicoline, a molecule involved in reducing inflammation in the brain.
The benefits
Choline contributes to the maintenance of normal liver function. It participates in lipidic metabolism and also presents properties at the cardiovascular level by ensuring the metabolism of homocysteine.
Moreover, choline is a precursor of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter present in the brain, and of phosphatidylcholine, the most abundant phospholipid in cell membranes.
