Getting an idea of the main ingredients of lecithin will give us a deeper understanding about this wonder food. Having been used for decades as a cure for high cholesterol, let us see what makes lecithin this effective. What comprises it that contributes to these health benefits? 

Lecithin granules contain all the phosphatides that are found naturally in cell membranes. Each tablespoon of lecithin granules – that is, about 7.5 grams – has about 1700 mg of phosphatidyl choline (roughly 98%, more than most lecithin sold in pill form or powdered), 1000 mg of phosphatidyl inositol, and about 2,200 mg of essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid. These elements all contribute to a healthy body. 

Linoleic Acid (LA) 

Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid of the omega-6 family that is important to human health. It is found in cooking oils and processed foods, as well as LA-containing supplements like lecithin granules. Once LA in lecithin granules enters the body, it is converted to GLA, or gamma-linoleic acid, another omega-6 fatty acid that is needed for normal brain function, growth and development, bone health, stimulation of skin and hair growth, regulation of metabolism, and maintenance of the reproductive processes. 

According to PowerPak, “The omega 6 LA comprises 7% to 9% of our daily caloric intake, while the omega 3 LNA makes up about 0.7% of energy. It is therefore estimated that the dietary ration of LA to LNA ranges from 10 to 20:1.” 

Phosphatidyl Choline (PC) 

Phosphatidyl Choline is an important and active compound found in lecithin granules. The main role of PC in lecithin granules is to break down fat deposits in the body. In fact, when you see lecithin granules sold over the counter as an aid to weight loss, you know that the ingredient responsible is PC. Because of this wonderful function of PC, lecithin granules are valuable not only in weight loss programs, but also in the prevention of atherosclerosis and heart disease. 

How does PC work? PC is immediately broken down into choline as soon as it enters the body. Choline is one of those essential nutrients that we need in order to live. To prove this, several studies have shown that within 30 days of a choline deficient diet, indications of liver problems will manifest themselves. 

Phosphatidyl Inositol (PI) 

Unlike phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl inositol, or PI, is not purely a phospholipid. The substance contains an alcohol, inositol, with a ring structure, which acts as a substrate for a large number of enzymes involved in cell signaling – the process by which a cell converts one kind of signal or stimulus to another, such as when your stomach tells you brain that you are already full, or when the epidermis of your hand signals your brain that the pan is hot when you try to touch it. 

The biochemical process of cell signaling is essential because without it, you would have no idea how to react to danger. You wouldn’t know for instance that there is a fire somewhere when you smell smoke, and hence, won’t be able to take any precautions to avoid getting in harm’s way. Apart from playing a significant role in cell signaling, PI in lecithin granules also generally aids in maintaining the integrity of the cell structure, sharing much of PC’s functions. 

All these elements are what compromise lecithin, making it a wonder food. So next time you take this food, think about all these ingredients of lecithin and their functions, and you’ll feel good knowing you are taking something that will promote a healthy body.