Improving Brain Function

Lecithin was fi rst isolated from egg yolk in the 1850’s. The Greek word for egg yolk, lekithos, is the basis for the name lecithin. Lecithin has a reputation for being “brain food” because of its high concentration of phosphatidyl choline, a nutrient which supports primary brain functions including memory, thought, and muscular control. Phosphatidyl choline is the biological precursor to acetycholine, an important neurotransmitter within the brain. Acetylcholine is so critical to healthy brain function that if choline is in short supply the body cannibalizes tissue to extract the choline for the critical functions of the nutrient. Phosphatidyl inositol, another component of lecithin, is involved in both the structure of nerve cells and also in message transmission. Lecithin has a unique chemistry which makes it possible to emulsify or disperse fats and oils in water. Lecithin helps keep fats evenly dispersed in the blood so they do not clump together. Dispersion of the fats makes it easier for the body to use them as a structural material and also to burn them for energy. The unique chemistry of lecithin has given it the reputation of being an “anti-cholesterol” nutrient. Lecithin also plays a role in the proper functioning of the digestive tract. It enhances the absorption and proper utilization of fat soluble nutrients and fats. GNLD Lecithin was developed using the same leading-edge lipid technology used to produce GNLD’s Formula IV, fi sh oil supplements, and water-miscible vitamins. The inositol in GNLD lecithin is 100% myoinositol, the biologically active form of the nutrient. Added magnesium, wheat germ oil, and natural vitamin E boost potency, improve stability, and prevent oxidation. Each serving contains 1,200 mg of pure soybean phospholipid. GNLD’s pioneering lecithin is a primary component of GNLD’s unique “water miscible” vitamin technology. It is also a primary component of all GNLD protein products, contributing to their superior mixability, smooth texture, and nutritional quality. GNLD’s Tre-en-en (see the September 2011 newsletter) adds another dimension to lipid and sterol supplementation and should be considered as an important source of lipids for construction of healthy brain tissue.