Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Lecithin/Phosphatidyl CholineFind Products
When medical researchers use the term “lecithin,” they are referring to a purified substance called phosphatidyl choline (PC) that belongs to a special category of fat-soluble substances called phospholipids.
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement,little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Birth Defects | 500 mg choline per day |  [2 stars] Choline appears to protect against neural tube defects when taken prior to and early in pregnancy, as it has similar biochemical effects as folic acid. |
High Cholesterol | 500 mg per day | [2 stars] Taking lecithin supplements may be a useful way to lower cholesterol. |
High Homocysteine | 2 grams daily choline or 34 grams daily lecithin | [2 stars] Choline has been shown to lower homocysteine levels. |
Tardive Dyskinesia | 25 grams lecithin twice a day, providing 35 grams of phosphatidyl choline per day | [2 stars] Lecithin and phosphatidyl choline may help improve symptoms. |
Alzheimer’s Disease | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Weak evidence suggests that moderate amounts of lecithin, a fat used by the body to build membranes that may be obtained through food sources, may slightly improve symptoms.
|
Gallstones | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Phosphatidylcholine (PC)—a purified extract from lecithin—is a component of bile that helps protect against gallstones. Supplementing with it may help dissolve gallstones |
Hepatitis | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Taking phosphatidylcholine (found in lecithin) was found to be beneficial in one study of people with chronic hepatitis B. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.