Lecithin. Fuel for the body, a building material for cell membranes, and an aid in the functioning of the liver, brain, and nervous system – all of this is lecithin. This organic substance, similar to fats, consists of a complex of phospholipids and has a wide range of applications. It helps normalize cholesterol levels in the blood and lipid metabolism, making it essential for both adolescents and the elderly. for 10 seconds Fuel for the body, a building material for cell membranes, and an aid in the functioning of the liver, brain, and nervous system – all of this is lecithin. This organic substance, similar to fats, is a complex of phospholipids and has a wide range of applications. It helps normalize blood cholesterol levels and lipid metabolism, and is essential for both adolescents and adults.
What is lecithin?
Lecithin was discovered in 1850 by the French scientist Maurice Bobelli, who isolated the lipid component from egg yolk and named it lecithin. Almost 90 years later, in 1939, a similar fraction was extracted from soybeans and was then called essential phospholipids.
From the point of view of chemists and biologists, lecithin is a mixture of phospholipids, the main component of which is phosphatidylcholine - a complex lipid containing glycerophosphoric acid. Its main components also include phosphoinositides, cephalin and phosphatidylserine. In addition, the lipid component may contain vitamin E (tocopherols), carbohydrates, sterols, sterols and organic pigments.
What is lecithin used for?
Why does the body need lecithin? Lecithin can be called a protector of cell membranes, but it also has many other benefits for the body. It supports the biosynthesis and controls the breakdown of cholesterol, promotes digestion and even absorption of fats, and improves the functioning of the pancreas.
If you live in a polluted environment or your work is associated with intense mental or physical exertion, it is advisable to include lecithin in your daily diet. This will help maintain health and prevent chronic diseases. After the age of 50, lecithin is especially important for the body. It is recommended for the prevention of senile dementia and to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Lecithin and blood vessels
The problem of atherosclerotic vascular lesions has remained relevant for years. Lecithin comes to the rescue! Its benefit is expressed in the fact that it reduces blood viscosity, reduces the risk of thrombus formation and improves microcirculation, which has a positive effect on overall health and tolerance to physical activity. This is a fundamental link for improving the quality of life, especially in atherosclerosis.
For people suffering from atherosclerosis, the presence of lecithin in the diet is extremely important. Phospholipids have the property of increasing the activity of lipoprotein lipase - a special enzyme that controls the metabolism of fats in the body. This enzyme breaks down lipids and removes cholesterol from the vascular wall, and also destroys chylomicrons - elastic "droplets" through which fats are transported in the blood.
As a result of these cleavage reactions, very low density lipoproteins are eliminated, which are among the main risk factors for atherosclerosis, as they participate in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. This process leads to a decrease in cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which has a beneficial effect on the quality of life of patients with atherosclerosis and improves the prognosis of the disease.
Lecithin and the liver
The effectiveness of lecithin has also been proven in children. It stimulates brain activity, supports the normal functioning of the nervous system, and promotes intensive intellectual development. If your child has speech difficulties, delayed mental and physical development, emotional instability, or weight gain, lecithin can help correct these problems.
What is lecithin made of?
Today, lecithin manufacturers most often use plant-based raw materials such as sunflower, rapeseed, and soybean. The most popular on the market are soybean and sunflower lecithin. Lecithin can also be extracted from egg yolks, but this process is significantly more expensive, which affects the final price for the consumer.
It is difficult to determine which type of lecithin is best, as it depends on individual needs and preferences. When choosing lecithin, it is advisable to look for products with the “non-GMO” symbol to be sure of its quality.
The use of lecithin. How to know if you need it?
- Changes in blood pressure;
- Impaired concentration;
- Forgetfulness;
- Mood swings and irritability;
- Dizziness and headache;
- Sleep problems;
Lecithin intake is also recommended for certain diagnosed diseases, such as liver damage, hepatitis A, B and C, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, recovery after a heart attack or stroke, joint diseases and chronic digestive disorders. For proper resolution of health problems, as well as for the appointment of appropriate medications, dosages and concomitant treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Where can I buy lecithin?
Artlife 's range includes both pure lecithin and functional products that contain it:
Lecithin is a 100% natural, non-GMO phospholipid fraction of soybeans (i.e. soy lecithin).
Lecithin gel with vitamins – designed to include essential phospholipids in children's diets. It helps to overcome psycho-emotional stress, improve memory and concentration, as well as prevent disorders in the nervous system.
In the composition of the biologically active complex “Hepar Formula” , lecithin helps strengthen the membranes of liver cells and prevents their fatty infiltration.
Lecithin is also one of the key components of the Neurostrong complex , where it plays a role in lowering cholesterol levels, reducing blood viscosity, and providing nutritional support for nervous tissue.