Lecithin is found in every living cell. Its highest concentration is in the vital organs ^_ the brain, heart, liver and kidneys. In our bodies it performs an astonishing range of vital function directly affecting our health and well-being. Briefly, here are some of, but by no means all, the benefits lecithin provides:

• In the brain, lecithin choline is transformed into acetylcholine, a vital compound for the transmission of messages from one nerve to another. This has an effect on memory, thinking ability and muscle control.

• In the liver, lecithin may help metabolize clogging fat and reduce the chance of liver degeneration.

• In the intestinal tract, lecithin helps the absorption of Vitamins A and D and influences the utilization of other fat soluble nutrients such as Vitamins E and K.

The list could go on and on, including its effects on the skin, nervous system, distribution of body fat, etc.

Let's look at how it works in two vital respects ^_ as an emulsifier and as a brain tonic.

Lecithin The Emulsifier
By helping to dissolve fats and cholesterol, lecithin functions as the body's emulsifier. Fats and oils are an essential part of the diet, yet they must function within the watery environment of the body. Although oil and water do not mix, a lecithin molecule can hold them together. One end of the molecule (containing fatty acids) is attracted to the oil, and the other (containing phosphorus and nitrogen) is attracted to the water. Thus, lecithin acts as a bridge between water and oil.  A buildup of fat-like cholesterol particle deposits can narrow or shut off a blood vessel, the consequences of which could be arteriosclerosis and heart attack.Lecithin could help remove the fatty liver deposits as well, so you may enjoy a healthier liver and a more youthful metabolic process.

Lecithin -The emulsifier
In 1975, scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology discovered lecithin choline has a prompt effect on the brain's ability to make an important chemical for nerve signal transmission called acetylcholine. The most surprising part of the discovery was that choline is taken up by the brain directly from the circulating blood.

It had long been believed that something called the "blood-brain barrier" protects the brain from such direct influences. Only a few substances, notably alcohol and narcotics were, heretofore, known to be able to penetrate the barrier. This means each time you take lecithin, there can be an immediate effect of the prodiuction of chemicals essential for signal transmission to the brain.

We know all animals, including humans, show some degree of memory loss with aging. What now looks exciting is the possibility of prevention. Scientific studies indicate that we can repress or minimize those age-related changes by long-term use of lecithin as a dietary supplement.

Do we actually need to supplement our diet with lecithin? For most people the answer is yes, especially older people or those with higher than normal cholesterol. The body, without dietary sources, is unable to synthesize an adequate supply. Small amounts of lecithin are found in many foods but significant dietary sources are few. Daily use of lecithin granules could be beneficial to most people.

Unfortunately, some products, that describe themselves as lecithin, list choline chloride as an ingredient. These products are not true lecithin. Choline chloride is a synthetic, while true lecithin contains natural phosphatidyl choline. Look for it on the label.

Do not accept liquid lecithin, usually found in gel capsules. It is primarily designed for commercial use as an emulsifier in food, cosmetics, paints, etc. It is a bad-tasting, sticky material and consists of about 37% oil and only 60% phosphatides. Capsules contain even more oil and are a high calorie, low potency supplement.