Choline : Study
Researchers recently discovered that an essential nutrient called choline is transported into the brain by a protein called FLVCR2.
- It is an essential nutrient that supports various bodily functions, including cellular growth and metabolism.
- It exists as both water-soluble and fat-soluble molecules. The body transports and absorbs choline differently depending on its form.
- The body can also produce small amounts of choline on its own in the liver, but not enough to meet daily needs.
- As a result, humans must obtain some choline from the diet.
- The richest dietary sources of choline are meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Many fruits, vegetables, and whole grains contain choline as well.
- It is a constituent of an important class of lipids (fats) called phospholipids (e.g., lecithin), which form structural elements of cell membranes.
- Therefore, all plant and animal cells need choline to preserve their structural integrity.
- It serves as a source of the methyl groups (―CH3 groups), which are required in various metabolic processes.
- Choline is also required to clear cholesterol from your liver.
- Deficiencies cause fat and cholesterol accumulation in your liver, which puts you at risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
