Content
- 1 What is lecithin
- 2 The composition and useful properties of lecithin
- 3 Why is lecithin useful?
- 4 Application of lecithin
- 5 Indications for taking lecithin
- 6 What foods contain lecithin
- 7 Rules for taking and dosage of drugs with lecithin
- 8 Features of the use of lecithin
- 9 Harm of lecithin and side effects
- 10 Contraindications to the use of lecithin
- 11 How to choose a drug with lecithin
- 12 Lecithin analogs
- 13 Conclusion
- 14 Reviews
The benefits and harms of lecithin are of interest to many people, since this additive is used in medicine, and in the food industry, and in sports. To correctly assess the properties of a substance, you need to understand its features.
What is lecithin
Lecithin is an ester compound, a fat-like substance of organic origin. Lecithin consists of glycolipids, phospholipids and triglycerides. The substance is present in food, but is also sold in pharmacies as a dietary supplement, since it can be difficult to obtain the required amount from food. Originally derived from egg yolk, modern lecithin is made mainly from soybean oil, refined and hydrated, or from sunflower seeds.
Externally, the substance looks like small yellow particles with a waxy structure, showing good solubility in most liquids.
The composition and useful properties of lecithin
The substance in the form of biologically active additives contains:
- carbohydrates;
- free fatty acids, sterols and styrenes;
- esters;
- tocopherol;
- phospholipids;
- biological pigments.
When a useful drug enters the body with food, a number of chemical reactions occur, as a result of which the following substances are synthesized:
- choline and glycerin;
- phosphoric acid;
- palmitic, stearic, arachidonic and oleic acids.
The benefits and harms of lecithin for the human body are very wide. The properties of the substance are necessary for the full functioning of the nervous system, they play an essential role in the functioning of the liver, since this organ is 50% lecithin. The substance is an antioxidant and is of great importance for the process of cell renewal, participates in the transport of vitamins and minerals throughout the body, and contributes to the normal functioning of the brain.
The lack of a useful substance is very harmful and poses a real danger. With a deficiency, chronic diseases of the stomach, intestines and liver develop, mental activity, memory and even coordination of movements suffer. The properties of lecithin are especially important for children - it must be present in sufficient quantities in the body of babies.
Why is lecithin useful?
The benefits and harms of soy lecithin extend to almost all systems of the human body. However, among the main properties of the substance, the following can be distinguished:
- positive effect on the liver and restoration of its functions, acceleration of the conversion of fats;
- beneficial effects on the vascular system, reducing harmful cholesterol, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis;
- improving the work of the heart system, lecithin strengthens the muscles of the heart and prevents them from weakening;
- prevention of diabetes, taking lecithin stimulates the activity of the pancreas and the production of insulin.
Also, the medicinal properties of the substance have a good effect on the condition of the skin. Lecithin benefits the hair, the strands become strong, manageable and shine.
For women
The particular benefit of lecithin for women is the beneficial effect of the substance on the nervous system. The properties of the drug help to regulate sleep, reduce stress levels, and protect against depression.
Also, the substance is used in the treatment of gynecological ailments. Adequate level of lecithin in the body is extremely important for uterine fibroids, endometriosis, mastopathy and oncology. The combination of a beneficial substance with drugs allows you to adjust the menstrual cycle and improve your well-being during menopause.
For men
The properties of the drug are also of great benefit to men. First of all, the biological supplement protects the representatives of the stronger sex from the development of atherosclerosis, from the occurrence of strokes and heart attacks. Also, the substance has a positive effect on sexual functions, helps prevent a decrease in potency.
The benefits of sunflower lecithin are especially appreciated. Unlike a soy supplement, this substance does not contain phytoestrogens that are harmful to men's health.
For children
The benefits and harms of lecithin for children lie in the fact that the properties of the substance have a good effect on the nervous system, memory and immunity of the child. For healthy development, the drug in baby food is very important, it helps to more easily adapt to everyday stress, facilitates the educational process and protects against seasonal colds.
Lecithin can be given to children in the form of dietary supplements. However, it is better if the child receives the bulk of the substance from food - plant sources are highly digestible.
Application of lecithin
The use of dietary supplements lecithin is used in many areas. The additive in one form or another is used to treat ailments and in the food industry, the substance is found in the composition of cosmetic products and even in sports nutrition.
In medicine
The main medical application of lecithin lies in the creation of hepatoprotective drugs. For example, such drugs as Essentiale and Esliver Forte contain a large amount of the substance, they are designed to restore liver cells and improve its functions.
Also, on the basis of the substance, drugs are produced for the treatment of the nervous system and improving the activity of the brain.
In food
In the food industry, two types of substances are used - an emulsifier with the E322 code and a stabilizer with the E476 code. The benefits of soy lecithin emulsifier are actively used in the production of butter and margarine, milk mixtures and chocolate. The substance is found in rolls, breads, cookies, cakes and sweets.
The benefit of soy lecithin E476 is that it thickens products and gives them a viscous consistency. It is especially often used to create chocolate, margarine and mayonnaise.
In general, the E476 supplement does not harm a healthy body, but it is considered less useful than the plant-derived substance E322. If possible, it is worth choosing products with plant lecithin, since it does not have a negative effect on metabolism and does not harm the stomach and intestines.
E322 supplement is most acceptable for the child's body.
In cosmetology
The beneficial properties of the substance have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin and hair, therefore lecithin is used in the manufacture of cosmetic products. On its basis, moisturizing and regenerating creams, masks for dry skin, products for combating acne and acne are made.
The substance is used in the production of emulsions and hair balms. Such products restore hair structure, normalize the balance of oily skin near the roots, and protect split ends. If you need to quickly restore health and shine to damaged hair, it makes sense to pay attention to cosmetics with lecithin.
In bodybuilding
Beneficial lecithin plays an important role in the process of fat metabolism and promotes muscle growth. Therefore, it is used by professional athletes as a separate food supplement or as part of sports nutrition.
The properties of the substance increase endurance and help to endure training easier, strengthen blood vessels and the heart, and increase hemoglobin levels. Taking a useful supplement protects athletes from chronic fatigue syndrome and promotes the unhindered absorption of all nutrients entering the body.
Indications for taking lecithin
Although lecithin is essential for the healthy functioning of any body, it should only be taken in supplement form if indicated. They become:
- diabetes mellitus and multiple sclerosis;
- high levels of bad cholesterol, liver disease;
- skin diseases - eczema and dermatitis;
- obesity;
- predisposition to heart attack and stroke;
- gastritis and stomach ulcers;
- constant physical or mental stress of an intense nature.
During pregnancy and lactation, supplements must be individually prescribed by a doctor. In some cases, they provide significant benefits, but in others they can be harmful.
What foods contain lecithin
Since lecithin is a natural substance, it is found in small quantities in food. It can be found:
- in egg yolk and fish caviar;
- in soybean and cottonseed oil;
- in fish and meat, chicken or beef liver;
- in nuts and seeds;
- in legumes;
- in cereals.
At the same time, you need to understand that it will not work to get a large dose of a substance only from food. That is why, in case of poor health and individual ailments, dietary supplements are prescribed for use, the concentration of the useful component in them is much higher.
Rules for taking and dosage of drugs with lecithin
In pharmacies, the substance is presented in several dosage forms.
- In tablets and gelatin capsules. The drug is taken twice a day, one tablet contains a single dosage of the substance.
- In granules. You also need to use the supplement twice a day, the volume is 2-3 teaspoons of granules at a time.
- As a solution. The liquid preparation should be added to drinks three times a day, 1 teaspoon each.
- In the form of a gel. Such a drug is usually given to children twice a day; it is necessary to measure 20 g of the substance.
Regardless of the form of release, the drug should be taken simultaneously with food, since the substance is responsible for the rapid transportation of vitamins and chemical elements to the internal organs. The course of taking a dietary supplement lasts on average about a month.
Features of the use of lecithin
In some conditions, the benefits and harms of sunflower lecithin, like the soy variety, are considered controversial. Before taking a supplement, you need to weigh the pros and cons.
During pregnancy
Despite the fact that lecithin is a natural substance and does not have toxic and carcinogenic properties, it is not recommended to use it in the first trimester of pregnancy. At a later date, taking the supplement must be agreed with the doctor, the drugs are considered not fully understood, their effect on the body of the developing fetus is difficult to predict in advance.
True, this does not apply to situations when the expectant mother needs drugs based on a substance for medical reasons. In such cases, the benefits outweigh the potential harm.
When breastfeeding
The instructions for the drugs indicate that the substance should be used with caution when breastfeeding. This means that the risk of developing negative reactions in infants is very low, and the properties of the supplement can be beneficial for a nursing mother.
However, the effectiveness of the substance remains controversial, and the effect is not fully understood. Therefore, without special indications for the duration of breastfeeding, it is better to refuse drugs.
For children
The supplement is beneficial for young children, since it helps to strengthen the immune system, activates growth processes, improves attention and concentration. During breastfeeding, the baby receives a small amount of the substance with breast milk, but then the volume of lecithin decreases.
It is possible to give the substance to children as a dietary supplement, provided that there are no special contraindications, and the child is over 1 year old. It is best to choose gels or soluble capsules with lecithin, they are easier for the child to absorb. As for the volumes, in order to avoid it is necessary to follow the instructions and avoid overdose.
Slimming
Since lecithin has a beneficial effect on metabolic processes and promotes the breakdown of fats, this dietary supplement is very useful for weight loss. The substance promotes energy production and rapid metabolism, good absorption of nutrients and the removal of harmful compounds from the body. It should be noted the benefits of lecithin for the skin, it tightens the skin and makes it more elastic, reduces cellulite and avoids the appearance of stretch marks.
With diabetes, cholecystitis, pancreatitis and gastritis
If you have certain diseases, you need to be very careful when taking medications and food supplements. Lecithin also requires careful study of the instructions, otherwise, instead of benefit, it will bring harm to health.
- For diabetics, the substance is very useful, it regulates sugar levels and improves the production of insulin by the pancreas. Although lecithin cannot completely replace insulin injections, it can reduce the need for them and prevent the development of severe complications.
- With cholecystitis and pancreatitis, the substance should be used with great care and only during the period of remission. The fact is that lecithin enhances the secretion of bile, and this can lead to the movement of stones in the gallbladder or to an exacerbation of inflammation of the pancreas. Thus, the properties of the product are rather useful for the prevention of pancreatitis and cholecystitis.
- For gastritis, lecithin is beneficial. The substance promotes accelerated tissue healing, therefore, it is possible to relieve inflammation faster when taken.
Harm of lecithin and side effects
Lack of lecithin negatively affects well-being, however, its excess is harmful. An overdose of a substance is expressed in the occurrence of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and migraines are observed.
It is necessary to take useful lecithin only according to the instructions, then its properties will not provoke side effects.
Contraindications to the use of lecithin
There are few contraindications for lecithin, but they are still available. These include:
- allergy to the components of the drug;
- cholecystitis and pancreatitis in the acute stage.
In addition, the properties of soy lecithin have an impact on the hormonal system. Therefore, the substance should be used with caution in men, pregnant women and lactating mothers.
How to choose a drug with lecithin
The useful substance in pharmacies is presented in two main varieties - soy or sunflower lecithin.Both drugs provide health benefits, but sunflower is considered safer because it does not contain phytoestrogens and does not cause soy allergies.
As for the dosage form, the choice between granules, tablets, capsules and gels is based on your own convenience. It is only important to pay attention to the composition of the preparations, they should not contain anything except phospholipids and fatty acids.
Lecithin analogs
Lecithin may be contraindicated due to allergies, but substitutes may be found. In particular, they are similar in properties and action:
- choline, vitamin B4 - it is present in lecithin and also has a beneficial effect on the liver and brain;
- folic acid, vitamin B9 - this substance also has a powerful effect and brings special benefits to the vascular and nervous system;
- methionine - this amino acid helps restore liver function, fights atherosclerosis and protects the nervous system.
Conclusion
The benefits and harms of lecithin depend on the presence or absence of prohibitions on its use and on the correct dosage. If you take the substance according to the instructions and only when necessary, lecithin will help improve the condition of the body.
