Phosphatidylcholine is a chemical that naturally occurs in foods such as eggs, red meat, and whole grains. It’s also used as a supplement for improving mental function, dissolving gallstones, and more.
Phosphatidylcholine is a phospholipid attached to a choline particle. Phospholipids contain fatty acids, glycerol, and phosphorus.
The phosphorus part of a phospholipid is called lecithin, and it’s made up of phosphatidylcholine. For this reason, the terms “phosphatidylcholine” and “lecithin” are often used interchangeably, although they’re different. Foods that contain lecithin are the best dietary sources of phosphatidylcholine.
Although phosphatidylcholine is traditionally used to support brain health, it can also support liver function and regulate cholesterol levels. Read on to learn what the research says about the benefits of this nutritional supplement.
A 2022 study suggests that levels of phosphatidylcholine may be directly related to Alzheimer’s disease.
Also, according to a
But more human studies are necessary to better understand how phosphatidylcholine can help brain function.
Discover brain exercises to keep your mind sharp.
A high fat diet can negatively affect your liver and may cause nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or cirrhosis of the liver.
According to a
The review also highlights clinical evidence that the condition can regress (reverse) after this type of treatment.
Learn about foods that are good for your liver.
Extended use of some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause severe gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach pain, bleeding in your digestive tract, and intestinal perforation.
According to a
Phosphatidylcholine may help prevent NSAID-related gastrointestinal damage.
Ulcerative colitis (UC) causes inflammation in your digestive tract. It may also cause ulcers.
According to a 2021 research analysis, delayed-release phosphatidylcholine could help improve quality of life in people with UC.
However, in a 2024 study focused on the possible benefits of a modified-release phosphatidylcholine formulation for people with mild to moderate UC, researchers ended the study early because it was unlikely to suggest that the formation was effective in reducing UC symptoms.
Learn more about ways to manage UC pain.
Lipomas are benign fatty tumors that can be painful.
The results of a
Gallstones are hard deposits in your gallbladder. They’re usually made up of undissolved cholesterol or bilirubin. Without treatment, they may become lodged in your bile ducts and cause severe pain or inflammation of your pancreas.
In a 2003 study, phosphatidylcholine supplementation reduced cholesterol gallstone formation in mice that were fed a high cholesterol diet. The researchers found that when phosphatidylcholine levels increased, cholesterol saturation levels decreased.
Learn more about natural treatments for gallstones.
There are many brands of phosphatidylcholine supplements to choose from, but they’re not all created equal. Because supplements aren’t well regulated, it can be challenging to know whether you’re getting a high quality product.
Choose a brand after doing research on its reputation and quality, as supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
You should choose a brand that:
- uses facilities that adhere to the FDA’s
good manufacturing practices (GMPs) - is made with pure ingredients
- contains few or no additives
- lists active and inactive ingredients on the label
- is tested by a third party
There’s no standardized dosage recommendation for phosphatidylcholine for most conditions. You should always defer to the dosage provided on the product label. Your doctor can also help you determine a safe dosage for you.
To reduce your risk of side effects, start with the lowest possible dose and gradually work your way up. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines or your doctor’s instructions.
Phosphatidylcholine supplements that you take by mouth may cause side effects such as:
- excessive sweating
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
Injecting phosphatidylcholine directly into a fatty tumor may cause severe inflammation or fibrosis, as well as:
- pain
- burning
- itching
- bruising
- edema (swelling due to fluid buildup)
- reddening or other color changes in your skin
You should talk with your doctor before taking phosphatidylcholine. They can let you know whether it’s likely to interact with any medications you’re currently taking.
Phosphatidylcholine has not been proven safe for people who are pregnant or nursing.
Phosphatidylcholine may help support many of your body’s functions. For example, it may boost your ability to think, aid in liver repair, ease symptoms of UC, and help dissolve gallstones.
You can get enough phosphatidylcholine from foods such as eggs, red meat, and whole grains, and food sources are the best option. Supplements are a second option if you cannot get enough from food.
If you’d like to add phosphatidylcholine to your treatment plan, talk with your doctor. They can discuss the possible benefits and risks based on your individual circumstances and answer any questions you may have.