A water soluble, organic compound, usually grouped within the Vitamin B complex. It is an essential nutrient and is needed for physiological functions such as structural integrity and signaling roles for cell membranes, cholinergic neuro-transmission (acetylcholine synthesis).
A derivative of the amino acid serine; an important component of cell membranes, as the phospholipid phosphatidylcholine (lecithin). It is synthesised in the body, and it is a ubiquitous component of cell membranes and therefore occurs in all foods, so that dietary deficiency is unknown.
A nutrient that takes part in many of the metabolism processes in the human body. Naturally present in egg yolks, organ meats, dairy products, soybean lecithin, spinach, and nuts. Choline promotes the synthesis of high-density lipoproteins (i.e., HDLP, also known as “good” cholesterol) by the liver. One active metabolite of choline is Platelet Activating Factor (PAF), which is involved in the body’s hormonal and reproductive functions. Choline is so important in proper infant development/growth that it is included in manufactured infant formula at the rate of at least 7 mg per 100 kcal.
A lipotropic factor that prevents accumulation of fat in the liver.
A compound involved in fat metabolism and the precursor for acetylcholine.
An amine. An essential nutrient that can be synthesized by the carboxylation of serine. Choline is a part of the phospholipid, lecithin. It is also an important component of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Essential to the developing brain, hence there is a critical need to assure that pregnant and lactating women consume sufficient choline to support the growth of the fetus and young child. A DRI has been published with suggested intakes that are age and gen¬ der dependent. Pregnant females should consume 450 mg/day, lactating females 550 mg/day, and males 550 mg/day. Eggs, meat, and milk are good sources of choline.
Choline is an extremely important molecule that is now considered a vitamin by many scientists. In fact, the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Sciences has established Dietary Reference Intake values for choline, although endogenous synthesis can account for choline needs in many individuals. Phosphatidyl choline (a phospholipid also known as lecithin) is produced from choline and is a major part of cell membranes. It also participates in important metabolic processes, including the reverse cholesterol transport system, in which cholesterol is transferred to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Choline is also a component of acteylcholine, an important neurotransmitter found at the neuromuscular junction.
Vitamin of the B complex, found in most tissues of animals and important (as part of acetylcholine) in nerve impulse transmission and in liver function. Some recent evidence indicates that it may also be important in retaining mental function in the elderly.
A basic compound important in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine (lecithin) and other phospholipids and of acetylcholine. It is also involved in the transport of fat in the body. Choline is sometimes classed as a vitamin but, although it is essential for life, it can be synthesized in the body.
One of the many constituents of the vitamin B complex. Lack of it in the experimental animal produces a fatty liver. It is found in egg yolk, liver, and meat. The probable daily human requirement is 500 mg, an amount amply covered by the ordinary diet. Choline can be synthesised by the body.
An amine, C5H15N02, widely distributed in plant and animal tissues. It is a constituent of lecithin and other phospholipids. It is essential in normal fat and carbohydrate metabolism. A deficiency leads to fatty liver. Choline is also involved in protein metabolism, serving as a methylating agent, and is a precursor of acetylcholine.