A brain that works hard every day without rest can experience fatigue. Some people may start to feel confused or forgetful. Did you know that this could be a sign indicating it’s time to take care of your brain?
If you want to nourish your brain and improve memory and learning efficiency, besides eating a nutritionally balanced diet and getting enough rest, taking natural extract supplements is also an interesting option. In this article, we will introduce you to ‘Lecithin,’ a brain-nourishing nutrient that has many beneficial effects on the body.
What is Lecithin?
Lecithin is a natural substance formed from the combination of glycerol, fatty acids, and phosphoric acid. It has a remarkable property of trapping fats in the bloodstream. Lecithin is an essential substance necessary for the functioning of many body systems and is very beneficial for the “brain and nervous system.”
“Lecithin” is destroyed by heat
To get lecithin, you need to choose foods that are rich sources, commonly found in egg yolks, soybeans, sunflower seeds, liver, and brewer’s yeast (yeast cultivated specifically for supplements). Unfortunately, cooking methods involving heat, such as frying, grilling, or boiling, can destroy much of the lecithin. Therefore, to obtain a sufficient amount of lecithin for brain nourishment, it is recommended to take natural extract lecithin supplements.
Take “Lecithin” in the appropriate amount
The appropriate amount for taking lecithin supplements is 1,200 – 2,400 milligrams per day, which is suitable for brain nourishment. Additionally, if you want to take it to reduce cholesterol levels, you can take 500 milligrams per day. For reducing blocked milk ducts in breastfeeding mothers, according to Canadian Breastfeeding guidelines and medical advice, the dosage is 2,400-4,800 milligrams per day.
Benefits for the brain
Lecithin is essential for producing choline, which nerve cells use to synthesize ‘acetylcholine.’ This substance nourishes nerve cells, helps transmit information between brain cells and between the brain and other parts of the body. It also helps enhance memory and reduce forgetfulness.
Other benefits of lecithin
- Helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K efficiently.
- The body uses lecithin to build cell membranes of various cells, such as blood cells, muscle cells, skin cells, and cells of different organs.
- Lecithin is a component in the creation of important molecules such as hormones, enzymes, certain immune system components, and blood clotting factors.
- Lecithin acts as a fat solvent in blood vessels, helping prevent fat deposits on vessel walls and controlling cholesterol levels.
Dr. Kobkulya Jungprasertsri
Specialist in Preventive Medicine
Director of Premier Life Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
