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Lecithin for weight loss
I am on a calorie-controlled diet to help me lose weight. A friend told me that lecithin would also help me lose weight since it helps break down fats in the diet. Is this true and if so, how much should I take?
Lecithin is the name given to a complex mix of naturally-occurring compounds although the primary active agent is believed to be Phosphatidyl choline. Your friend is quite right - this supplement works in the body to breakdown fats and cholesterol and to prevent particles of both sticking to the arterial walls. Choline also works to lower levels of homocysteine - a by-product of normal metabolism that is now reckoned to be a much better indicator of the risk of heart disease than high cholesterol levels.
Eggs yolks, nuts and soyabeans all contain lecithin, but if you plan to take a supplement, you need to take around 2g a day and no more than 10g. That said, there have been no toxicity reports with this nutrient which also helps repair damaged cell membranes and so can be said to have the added bonus of an anti-ageing action.
The much-maligned dandelion is an excellent source of lecithin. A natural diuretic, this herb will help prevent bloating, aid digestion and support healthy liver functioning. All these actions will help you in your efforts to achieve an optimum and healthier weight. All parts of the dandelion can be used to promote good health but to prevent the accumulation of fat in the body, use a supplement or herbal tincture made from the root.