| Classified as a member of the water-soluble B-complex vitamin group;
the precursor to and a component of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine;
also a part of phosphatydlcholine and as such, choline functions in
the metabolism of fat and the transport of fat from the liver; a phospholipid
that is a major structural component of cell walls and cellular membranes
throughout the body; intimately involved in a wide range of neurological
activities including the functions of movement, coordination and stimulation
of muscle contraction; plays a critical role in the higher level cerebrocorticol
functions of intellect, memory and thoughts; choline is converted
to betaine, then functions in transmethylation reactions (methyl donor)
in the synthesis of amino acids and proteins; a fat emulsifying (lipotropic)
agent, it is involved in the metabolism and regulation of fats and
cholesterol; structurally, choline contains three methyl groups which
enable it to serve as a methyl donor in many important biochemical
pathways; needed for the proper function of the gallbladder, kidneys
and liver; contributes to energy metabolism; and is essential for
the health of the myelin sheath (the protective coating of the nervous
system).
A
choline deficiency could be a contributing cause of abnormal platelet
aggregation, alcoholism, panic/anxiety attacks, liver disease, memory
loss, heart disease (along with B-vitamin deficiencies), and tardive
dyskinesia.
Dietary
sources richest in choline (per serving) include brain and organ
meats, egg yolk, lecithin, legumes (beans, lentils, peas, soybeans),
lettuce, liver, nutritional supplements, peanut, potato, soy products
and wheat germ.
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hCG
