What is Choline?
What is choline used for by the body? What kinds of foods is it in? How much should I be getting?
Helps With Building Cells And Memory
What is choline used for in the body? It is an important nutrient in cell membranes and also has a role in transporting lipids in the blood stream. It is a precursor to acetylcholine which is a neurotransmitter that sends signals throughout the body and is important to healthy brain function. It is reputed to help with memory and reaction time. In addition, it can help remove build up of homocysteine which is linked to osteoporosis and heart disease.
How Much Do You Need
What is choline RDA? The Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Sciences recommends that Women get 425 MG a day and Men get 550 Mg a day. It is thought that anywhere between 1 - 5 grams may be used to enhance memory. There are no serious adverse side effects, although high doses may result in nausea and diarrhea.
You can get your RDA of choline from supplements or from the foods you eat. Foods high in choline include egg yolks, soybeans, flax seeds, peanuts, cauliflower and potatoes.
Symptoms of Choline Deficiency
Choline deficiency is rare in anyone who eats a normal diet. Symptoms of deficiency can include fatigue, insomnia, decreased memory function, and in extreme cases cardiovascular disease, liver dysfunction, infertility and kidney failure. Consult your physician before taking an new vitamins or medications and if you think you have choline deficiency.
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