Choline and The Liver
Failure of the liver to work normally may just be one of the conditions that most doctors find daunting and even impossible to cure under specific circumstances. Liver diseases may take on eclectic labels, form or symptoms; but the fact remains that the medical field is yet to discover the fastest and most effective cure for liver failures.
This poses the importance of proper care for the liver. Note that this part of the human’s anatomy is responsible in filtering toxics, excess chemicals from medicines and other nefarious compounds inside the body. Avoiding alcoholic beverages and cigarettes may be the most cost-efficient and effective way to maintain the wellness of the liver, but taking in a good amount of choline protect it better.
An Important Vitamin Nutrient
Choline is an important nutrient needed by the body to produce essential compounds which are vital in maintaining the health of the cell membranes. Though technically, Choline is not a family of the B vitamins, the nutrient often falls under this classification.
Aside from its benefit to the health of cell membranes, Choline also works as a lipotropic – a nutrient that aids the liver in getting rid of fats. Scientists are still on the process of studying the interaction of Choline with other nutrients, but recent findings show that it works well with folate and methionine (a kind of amino acid).
The body can of course naturally produce this nutrient. Breast milk, for example, is proven to have high choline content. Then again, taking in higher amount of this nutrient through approved supplements may provide several health benefits. These include:
– Aids in the brain developments of infants and fetuses
– Prevents memory loss from aging
– Lower cholesterols and homocysteine that causes heart diseases
– Prevents the development of cancer cells
– Assist the regulation of the central nervous system by enhancing the transfer of impulses and producing neurotransmitter acetylcholines
– Regulates the functions of the muscles
From the long list of health benefits one can acquire from Choline, experts widely recognize this nutrient’s ability in keeping the liver healthy. Choline works by enhancing the metabolism or breaking down of fats. This translates to lesser fats reaching the organ and more energy produced for the body.
Important for tissue Growth:
Choline was also found by experts to facilitate tissue growth and repair – a benefit most needed by sensitive organs like the liver, along with glands and tissues. With its antioxidant properties, more cholesterol can be flushed out of the body and the dangerous build-up of fats can be prevented.
It was only in 2004 when the USDA produced an official list of foods containing choline, but further studies revealed that the level of the nutrient in these are lower than expected. Most doctors therefore recommend specific supplements that can help their patients gain an amiable amount of choline.
Note that each individual necessitates a particular amount of choline, depending on their ages and sex. Men generally need more amount of this nutrient that women, but lactating or pregnant mothers need an increase dosage. On the other hand, Choline intake when not regulated may have adverse effects in the guise of low blood pressure, unusual body odor and stomach upsets.