ALPHA-PHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a group of chemicals that belongs to compounds called phospholipids, which are vital to the normal functioning of the brain, nerves, liver, and other organs.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used as an emulsifier in cooking to stabilize ingredients that do not easily mix, such as oil and water.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is commonly used as a food additive to emulsify foods and can be found in many foods, including soybeans and egg yolks.
CAS Number: 8002-43-5
EC Number: 232-307-2
Chemical Formula: C40H80NO8P
Molecular Weight (g/mol): 750
Synonyms: Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, Egg lecithin, Lecithinum ex soya, Ovolecithin, Sojalecithin, Soya lecithin, Soy lecithin, Soy phospholipid, Soybean lecithin, Vegilecithin, Vitellin, Vitelline, Lecithin, lecithol, vitellin, kelecin, granulestin, 1,2-diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine, EGG YOLK LECITHIN, EGG YOLK LECITHINS, GLYCINE SOJA (SOYBEAN) LECITHIN, GLYCINE SOJA LECITHIN, LECITHIN, SOYBEAN, LECITHINS, LECITHINS, EGG YOLK, SOYBEAN LECITHIN, SOYBEAN PHOSPHOLIPID, ACTI-FLOW 68SB, AF 1, PC, kelecin, LECITHIN, froM Egg, Alcolec-S, granulestin, L-α-Lecithin, LIPOID(R)E80, Lecithin, NF, Phospholutein, Phosphatidylcholine, Phosphatidyl Choline, Soy Lecithin, Egg Lecithin, Soybean Lecithin, Phosphatidylserine, Phosphatidylethanolamine, Lecithin Complex, Lecithin Oil, Lecithin Granules, Lecithin Powder, Natural Lecithin, Lecithin Glycerides, Phospholipid Complex, Lecithin Emulsifier, Lecithin Extract, Lecithin Supplement, Lecithin Phospholipid, Lecithin Blend, Lecithin Concentrate, Lecithin Additive, Lecithin Powdered, Lecithin Solution, Lecithin Extractive, Phosphatidic Acid, Phospholipid Blend, Soy Lecithin Powder, Lecithin Granulated, Lecithin Derivative, Lecithin-Based Emulsifier, Lecithin Lipid, Phosphatidylcholine Complex, Lecithin Active Ingredient, Lecithin Concentrated, Lecithin Active, Lecithin Concentrate Powder, Lecithin Dry, Lecithin Crystals, Lecithin Capsules, Lecithin Liquor, Lecithin Flakes, Lecithin Paste, Lecithin Dissolved, Lecithin Liquid, Lecithin Solid, Lecithin High Purity, Lecithin Granule Form, Lecithin Emulsion, Lecithin Extract Powder
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is Alpha-phosphatidylcholineum ex soya, sojaAlpha-phosphatidylcholine, or soy Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a group of chemicals that are related.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine isn’t a single chemical.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholines belong to a larger group of compounds called phospholipids.
These are important parts of the brain, blood, nerves, and other tissues.
Phospholipids are also a part of cell membranes.
The body uses Alpha-phosphatidylcholine in the metabolic process and to move fats.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholines turn into choline in the body.
They help make the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is commonly used as a food additive to emulsify foods.
Many people know Alpha-phosphatidylcholine as the oily film on their frying pan when they use a nonstick cooking spray.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a generic term to designate any group of yellow-brownish fatty substances occurring in animal and plant tissues which are amphiphilic – they attract both water and fatty substances (and so are both hydrophilic and lipophilic), and are used for smoothing food textures, emulsifying, homogenizing liquid mixtures, and repelling sticking materials.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholines are mixtures of glycerophospholipids including phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylserine, and phosphatidic acid.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine was first isolated in 1845 by the French chemist and pharmacist Théodore Gobley.
In 1850, he named the phosphatidylcholine lécithine.
Gobley originally isolated Alpha-phosphatidylcholine from egg yolk – λέκιθος lekithos is "egg yolk" in Ancient Greek – and established the complete chemical formula of phosphatidylcholine in 1874; in between, he had demonstrated the presence of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine in a variety of biological materials, including venous blood, human lungs, bile, human brain tissue, fish eggs, fish roe, and brains of sheep and chicken.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can easily be extracted chemically using solvents such as hexane, ethanol, acetone, petroleum ether or benzene; or extraction can be done mechanically.
Common sources include egg yolk, marine foods, soybeans, milk, rapeseed, cottonseed, and sunflower oil.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine has low solubility in water, but is an excellent emulsifier.
In aqueous solution, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine phospholipids can form either liposomes, bilayer sheets, micelles, or lamellar structures, depending on hydration and temperature.
This results in a type of surfactant that usually is classified as amphipathic.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is sold as a food additive and dietary supplement.
In cooking, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is sometimes used as an emulsifier and to prevent sticking, for example in non-stick cooking spray.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a mixture of fats that are essential to cells in the human body.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can be found in many foods, including soybeans and egg yolks.
In the diet, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is the main source of choline, a nutrient similar to the B vitamins.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is converted into acetylcholine, a substance that transmits nerve impulses.
People use Alpha-phosphatidylcholine for Alzheimer disease and dementia, Parkinson disease, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a fat that is essential in the cells of the body.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can be found in many foods, including soybeans and egg yolks.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is taken as a medicine and is also used in the manufacturing of medicines.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used for treating memory disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is also used for treating gallbladder disease, liver disease, certain types of depression, high cholesterol, anxiety, and a skin disease called eczema.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is converted into acetylcholine, a substance that transmits nerve impulses.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine describes a substance that's naturally found in the tissues of your body.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine made up of fatty acids, and Alpha-phosphatidylcholine has a variety of commercial and medical uses.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine works as an emulsifier, meaning Alpha-phosphatidylcholine suspends fats and oils and keeps them from mixing with other substances.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine supplements can be purchased to help treat high cholesterol, as a breastfeeding aid, and to treat ulcerative colitis, among other things.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used for binding things together that do not naturally bind in the food, drug, and cosmetic industries.
Proposed drug use of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine includes treatment for high levels of cholesterol in the blood, nerve disorders, manic disorders, and liver ailments.
However, no quality clinical trials exist to support Alpha-phosphatidylcholine's use for these indications.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a nutrient that occurs naturally in food and is also sold as a dietary supplement.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can be found in green vegetables, red meat, and eggs.
Supplements are often made from soybeans, egg yolks, or animal products.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine supplements are used to lower cholesterol.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may also benefit some neurological and inflammatory conditions.
However, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine supplements are not approved to prevent or treat any condition.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is not a single substance.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a group of chemicals that belongs to compounds called phospholipids.
Phospholipids are a type of fat that helps maintain the integrity of cells.
They are vital to the normal functioning of the brain, nerves, liver, and other organs.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used in cooking is as an emulsifier.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine helps to stabilize ingredients that do not easily mix, such as oil and water.
In baking, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used as a dough condition to create a softer, more refined end product.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can also be used as an egg replacement.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is also used in cosmetics, eye drops, and skin moisturizers.
A perfect natural creation – Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a genuine all-rounder.
This is down to Alpha-phosphatidylcholine amazing structure: the active components of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine (phospholipids) are both lipophilic and hydrophilic, meaning that they are attracted to both water and fatty substances.
This handy property makes Alpha-phosphatidylcholine indispensable for a wide array of technological requirements in the food industry.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine mixes with fats/oils and with water, making Alpha-phosphatidylcholine ideal as an emulsifier.
Thanks to Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, immiscible substances, such as water and oils, form stable emulsions.
Depending on the application, Alpha-phosphatidylcholines can be used to produce water-in-oil emulsions (W/O emulsions) and oil-in-water emulsions (O/W emulsions).
In the natural world, phospholipids are essential building blocks of cell walls (membranes) and support digestion – and occur in every plant and animal cell.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine supplements are usually derived from sunflower seeds, eggs, or soybeans.
Soy is by far the ingredient most commonly used to create Alpha-phosphatidylcholine supplements.
Animal fats, fish, and corn are also sometimes used.
While soybean Alpha-phosphatidylcholine tends to come in granulated capsule form, you can buy sunflower Alpha-phosphatidylcholine in both powder and liquid form, too.
Sunflower Alpha-phosphatidylcholine isn’t as common, but some people prefer Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, especially if they’re trying to avoid genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their food.
While soybeans are sometimes genetically modified in mass production, sunflower seeds aren’t.
The process of extraction is also gentler for sunflower Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
Extracting Alpha-phosphatidylcholine from the sunflower seeds doesn’t require harsh chemicals.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a fatty substance mostly used for emulsifying and homogenising liquid, and smoothen food textures.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine inclusion in food products helps with prevention from sticking to packaging material.
The fatty substance is usually extracted from seeds, plant tissue, and certain animals.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine also holds properties that to treat eczema is often applied to the skin as a moisturiser or used as an ingredient in one.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, also called Phosphatidyl Choline, any of a group of phospholipids (phosphoglycerides) that are important in cell structure and metabolism.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholines are composed of phosphoric acid, cholines, esters of glycerol, and two fatty acids; the chain length, position, and degree of unsaturation of these fatty acids vary, and this variation results in different Alpha-phosphatidylcholines with different biological functions.
Pure Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is white and waxy and darkens when exposed to air.
Commercial Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is brown to light yellow, and Alpha-phosphatidylcholine consistency varies from plastic to liquid.
The term Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is also used for a mixture of phosphoglycerides containing principally Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, cephalin (specifically phosphatidyl ethanolamine), and phosphatidyl inositol.
Commercial Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, most of which comes from soybean oil, contains this mixture and, commonly, about 35 percent neutral oil.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is widely used as a wetting and emulsifying agent and for other purposes.
Among the products in which Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used are animal feeds, baking products and mixes, chocolate, cosmetics and soaps, dyes, insecticides, paints, and plastics.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is added to pet food as an emulsifier, allowing oils and water to mix and to keep fats from separating.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine also acts as a preservative and can offer some nutritional benefits.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a source of choline, which is essential to every living cell in the body and is one of the main components of cell membranes.
Without choline, the cell membranes would harden, prohibiting important nutrients from entering and leaving the cell.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is also to provide additional benefits in improving brain function, depression, and treating liver and gall bladder disease as well as some skin disorders such as eczema.
Lecitin is available in soy, sunflower and canola varieties and may be organic, non-GMO and have reduced viscosity for ease of use.
Types of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine supplements are usually derived from sunflower seeds, eggs, or soybeans.
Soy is by far the ingredient most commonly used to create Alpha-phosphatidylcholinesupplements.
Animal fats, fish, and corn are also sometimes used.
While soybean Alpha-phosphatidylcholine tends to come in granulated capsule form, you can buy sunflower Alpha-phosphatidylcholine in both powder and liquid form, too.
Sunflower Alpha-phosphatidylcholine isn't as common, but some people prefer Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, especially if they're trying to avoid genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their food.
While soybeans are sometimes genetically modified in mass production, sunflower seeds aren't.
The process of extraction is also gentler for sunflower Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
Extracting Alpha-phosphatidylcholine from the sunflower seeds doesn't require harsh chemicals.
Uses of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used to treat a number of health conditions.
To date, there is little evidence that Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is effective.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prevent or treat any conditions.
High Cholesterol:
A 2010 study found that soy Alpha-phosphatidylcholine reduced cholesterol.
The study found that 500 milligrams of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine taken daily for two months reduced total cholesterol levels by 42% and "bad" LDL cholesterol levels by 56.15%.
This suggests Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may work as a supplemental treatment for high cholesterol.
Other studies have been less promising.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine also plays a role in atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
Some studies suggest that too much Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may increase the risk of heart disease.
More research is needed.
Herbs and Supplements That Lower Cholesterol:
Ulcerative Colitis:
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Ulcerative colitis has been linked to low levels of phosphatidylcholine, a chemical found in Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
This chemical is a component of mucus in the digestive tract.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine helps protect the colon from inflammation and bacteria.
A 2010 study found that Alpha-phosphatidylcholine supplements reduced bowel inflammation in people with ulcerative colitis.
Participants who took Alpha-phosphatidylcholine had a 50% reduction in inflammation compared to those who took a placebo.
Unfortunately, the study included only 18 adults.
Other studies have not found similar benefits.
Mastitis:
Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissues.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is common in breastfeeding mothers.
Clogged milk ducts can lead to mastitis.
Some studies have found that Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can help prevent clogged milk ducts.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine appears to make breastmilk less thick.
That said, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is still not well studied in people with mastitis.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine should not be used without first asking an obstetrician or other health professional.
Alzheimer's Disease:
Choline derived from Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is thought to improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may also help people with other types of dementia, including Parkinson's dementia.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is thought to help increase nerve transmissions in the brain.
This may ease the symptoms of progressive neurologic disorders, diseases that cause damage to the brain and nerves over time.
To date, though, there isn't any evidence to support this.
Some animal studies do suggest that Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may help protect nerve cells.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may reduce the risk of dementia by slowing the degeneration of glial cells.
These are cells that protect and stabilize brain tissues.
More research is needed.
Food Sources of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine:
Foods that are good sources of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine include:
Organ meats like liver
Red meat
Seafood
Eggs
Peanuts
Wheat germ
Canola oil
Sunflower oil
Green vegetables like broccoli, and Brussels sprouts
Legumes like black beans, kidney beans, and soybeans
Applications of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
In the pharmaceutical industry, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine acts as a wetting agent, stabilizing agent and choline enrichment carrier, helps emulsification and encapsulation, and is a good dispersing agent.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can be used in the manufacture of intravenous oil infusions and for therapeutic use.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine enriches fat and protein in animal feeds and improves pelletization.
In the paint industry, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine creates protective coatings for paint and printing ink surfaces, helps as a rust inhibitor, color intensifying agent, catalyst, softener co-modifier and dispersion aid.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a good stabilizing and suspending agent, emulsifier and wetting agent, helps maintain homogeneous mixture of several pigments, helps grind metal oxide pigments, is a spreading and mixing aid, prevents pigments from hardening, eliminates foam in water.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine helps to disperse based paints and latex based paints fast.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can also be used as a release agent for plastics, an anti-sludge additive in motor oils, an anti-gum agent in gasoline, and an emulsifier, spreading agent and antioxidant in the textile, rubber and other industries.
Food additive:
The non-toxicity of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine leads to Alpha-phosphatidylcholine use with food, as an additive or in food preparation.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used commercially in foods that require a natural emulsifier or lubricant.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine reduces viscosity in confectionery, replaces more expensive ingredients, controls sugar crystallization and flow properties of chocolate, aids in homogeneous mixing of ingredients, extends shelf life for some products, and can be used as a coating.
In emulsions and fat spreads such as margarines with a high fat content of over 75%, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine stabilizes emulsions, reduces spatter (splatter and scattering of oil droplets) during frying, and improves the texture and flavor release of spreads.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine reduces the need for oil and eggs in doughs and baking, helps to even out the distribution of ingredients in the dough, stabilizes fermentation, increases volume, protects yeast cells in dough when frozen, and acts as a release agent that prevents sticking and makes cleaning easier.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine improves the wetting properties of hydrophilic powders (such as low-fat proteins) and lipophilic powders (such as cocoa powder), controls dust and aids complete dispersion in water.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine inhibits the separation of cocoa and cocoa butter in a candy bar.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can be used as a component of cooking sprays and a release agent to prevent sticking.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine has been approved for human consumption by the United States Food and Drug Administration with the status of "generally recognized as safe."
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is recognized as a food additive defined by the EU as E322.
Dietary Supplement:
Because Alpha-phosphatidylcholine contains phosphatidylcholines, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a source of choline, an essential nutrient.
There is no clinical evidence for the safety or effectiveness of high doses of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine for improving milk flow in nursing mothers or infants.
Soy Alpha-phosphatidylcholine does not contain enough allergenic protein for most people with soy allergies, but the US FDA exempts only a few soy Alpha-phosphatidylcholine products from their mandatory requirements for allergenic source labeling.
A 2003 review found no benefit of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine in people with dementia.
Eeligious Restrictions:
Soy-derived Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is considered by some to be kitniote and is prohibited for Ashkenazi Jews on Passover, when many grain-based foods are prohibited, but not at other times.
This doesn't necessarily affect Sephardic Jews, who don't have the same restrictions on rice and kitniote during Passover.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is not forbidden for Muslims to eat Alpha-phosphatidylcholine alone; however, care should be taken to ensure that this source is halal as Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may be of animal or vegetable origin.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine obtained from plants and egg yolk and Alpha-phosphatidylcholine obtained from animals slaughtered according to the rules of dhabihah are permissible.
Features of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholines have emulsifying and lubricating properties and are a surfactant.
They can be completely metabolized by humans (see inositol), therefore they are well tolerated by humans and are non-toxic when ingested.
The main components of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine from commercial soybeans are:
33–35% soybean oil
20–21% phosphatidylinositols
19-21% phosphatidylcholine
8-20% phosphatidylethanolamine
5-11% other phosphatids
5% free carbohydrates
2–5% sterols
1% humidity
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used for applications in human food, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, dyes and other industrial applications.
Benefits of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine:
Improves heart health:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine that comes from soy can improve cardiovascular health, especially if you’re already at risk of developing high blood pressure or heart disease.
This is according to a small study in which participants were given soy products including Alpha-phosphatidylcholine additives.
Since soy is complicated to digest, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine takes your body longer to break soy products down.
For some people, this works to make them feel more full after consuming Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
Aids breastfeeding mothers:
Some breastfeeding experts recommend Alpha-phosphatidylcholine as a solution for preventing recurrent plugged ducts.
The Canadian Breastfeeding Foundation recommends a dose of 1,200 milligrams, four times per day, to experience this benefit.
They speculate that Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may decrease the viscosity of your breast milk, making Alpha-phosphatidylcholine less likely to clog milk ducts in your breast.
This isn’t meant to be a treatment for plugged ducts, however.
Treat ducts with:
Application of warm compresses
Massage
Extra pumping, if needed
Draining the breast well
Asking a lactation consultant for more suggestions
Report any fever or flu-like feelings to your doctor.
Helps improve digestion:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine has been tested in people with ulcerative colitis to improve their digestion.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine’s emulsifying qualities contribute to a chain reaction that improves the mucus in your intestine, making the digestive process easier and protecting the delicate lining of your digestive system.
Even if you don’t have ulcerative colitis, you might want to consider using Alpha-phosphatidylcholine if you have irritable bowel syndrome, or another condition that affects your digestive process.
May fight dementia symptoms:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine contains choline, which is a chemical your brain uses to communicate.
Clinical researchTrusted Source suggests that a diet rich in choline can lead to a sharper memory and help people with Alzheimer’s.
Lipid substances that contain choline, like Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, may improve the brain’s functional pathways.
There’s some conflicting evidence on if Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can be used to treat people that have neurological and nervous system conditions, but research into this benefit of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is promising and moving forward.
Soothes and moisturizes skin:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is in the ingredients of some skin care products.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine used as an emollient, making skin feel smooth by restoring hydration.
In most of these products, the kind of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine used is called hydrogenated Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
There’s not a lot of evidence that Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, when used alone, can cure acne and eczema — although some people use Alpha-phosphatidylcholine for that.
Taking Alpha-phosphatidylcholine capsules could theoretically improve your skin, since Alpha-phosphatidylcholine tones and stimulates other parts of your body, but we don’t know for sure.
Risks and complications:
People with egg and soy allergies need to be especially careful to find out where the Alpha-phosphatidylcholine in their supplements comes from, to avoid allergic reactions.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can be found in a lot of the products that you may already eat, like eggs and animal products.
There’s no risk from the Alpha-phosphatidylcholine that occurs naturally in your food.
Supplements, however, are not monitored for quality by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
There may be effects that aren’t yet understood.
People taking Alpha-phosphatidylcholine need to be aware of dosing recommendations, and shouldn’t exceed more than 5,000 milligrams per day.
Health Benefits:
In your body, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is broken down into a substance called choline.
The body uses choline to:
Transport fat
Regulate metabolism
Maintain cells
Help nerves transmit information
Choline is not readily produced by the body.
Most of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine comes from the foods we eat.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is used to treat many health conditions:
Enhance athletic performance
Alleviate stress and anxiety
Lower cholesterol
Reduce inflammation
Improve liver function
Prevent the onset of dementia
Production of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Commercial Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, as used by food manufacturers, is a mixture of phospholipids in oil.
The Alpha-phosphatidylcholine can be obtained by water degumming the extracted oil of seeds.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a mixture of various phospholipids, and the composition depends on the origin of the Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
A major source of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is soybean oil.
Because of the EU requirement to declare additions of allergens in foods, in addition to regulations regarding genetically modified crops, a gradual shift to other sources of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine (such as sunflower Alpha-phosphatidylcholine) is taking place.
The main phospholipids in Alpha-phosphatidylcholine from soy and sunflower are phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, and phosphatidic acid.
They are often abbreviated to PC, PI, PE, PS and PA, respectively.
Purified phospholipids are produced by companies commercially.
Hydrolysed Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
To modify the performance of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine to make Alpha-phosphatidylcholine suitable for the product to which Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is added, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine may be hydrolysed enzymatically.
In hydrolysed Alpha-phosphatidylcholines, a portion of the phospholipids have one fatty acid removed by phospholipase.
Such phospholipids are called lysophospholipids.
The most commonly used phospholipase is phospholipase A2, which removes the fatty acid at the C2 position of glycerol.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholines may also be modified by a process called fractionation.
During this process, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is mixed with an alcohol, usually ethanol.
Some phospholipids, such as phosphatidylcholine, have good solubility in ethanol, whereas most other phospholipids do not dissolve well in ethanol.
The ethanol is separated from the Alpha-phosphatidylcholine sludge, after which the ethanol is removed by evaporation to obtain a phosphatidylcholine-enriched Alpha-phosphatidylcholine fraction.
Genetically modified crops as a source of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine:
As described above, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is highly processed.
Therefore, genetically modified (GM) protein or DNA from the original GM crop from which Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is derived often is undetectable – in other words, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is not substantially different from Alpha-phosphatidylcholine derived from non-GM crops.
Nonetheless, consumer concerns about genetically modified food have extended to highly purified derivatives from GM food, such as Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
This concern led to policy and regulatory changes in the EU in 2000, when Commission Regulation (EC) 50/2000 was passed which required labelling of food containing additives derived from GMOs, including Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
Because Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is nearly impossible to detect the origin of derivatives such as Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, the European regulations require those who wish to sell Alpha-phosphatidylcholine in Europe to use a meticulous, but essential system of identity preservation (IP).
Action Mechanism of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine contains fatty acids that can activate gene controlling receptors (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors).
Once activated, these receptors play a major role in energy balance and metabolic function
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors exist in many types of tissues such as in the heart, liver, muscle, fat, and intestine.
These tissues rely on the receptor activation for promotion of fatty acid, ketone bodies, and glucose metabolism.
Ketone bodies are used by the body as a source of energy.
Origin of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is a key component of cell membranes, and found frequently in nature.
For example, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine’s in plant sources such as soybeans, corn and rapeseed.
Also, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine’s found in animal products such as egg yolks.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine was discovered in 1846 by the French chemist Maurice Gobley.
He isolated an orange-colored substance from egg yolk and called Alpha-phosphatidylcholine after the Greek name for egg yolk, “lekithos.”
Egg yolk contains 10–20% Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, while most vegetable oils contain 0.1–3.0%.
History of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine, first discovered in 1850 by French chemist Maurice Gobley, is a naturally occurring fatty substance found in various plant and animal tissues.
Named from the Greek word "lekithos," meaning egg yolk, where it was originally identified, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine gained prominence in the early 20th century as a significant component in the food and pharmaceutical industries due to its emulsifying and stabilizing properties.
Alpha-phosphatidylcholines commercial production began with the extraction from soybeans and sunflower seeds, leading to its widespread use in food processing, cosmetics, and medicine.
Over time, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine has become integral in numerous applications, from enhancing food textures to serving as a crucial ingredient in nutritional supplements and pharmaceuticals.
Handling and Storage of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Handling:
Handle Alpha-phosphatidylcholine with care to avoid contamination. Use in well-ventilated areas to minimize inhalation exposure.
Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.
Ensure that all handling equipment is clean and free from contaminants.
Storage:
Store Alpha-phosphatidylcholine in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
Keep containers tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination.
Maintain proper ventilation in storage areas.
Reactivity and Stability of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Reactivity:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is generally stable and non-reactive under normal conditions.
However, it can react with strong oxidizing agents.
Avoid exposure to incompatible substances.
Stability:
Alpha-phosphatidylcholine is stable under recommended storage conditions.
It should be kept away from extreme temperatures and moisture to prevent degradation.
First Aid Measures of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Inhalation:
Move the affected individual to fresh air immediately.
If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact:
Wash affected area with plenty of water and soap.
If irritation or redness persists, seek medical advice.
Eye Contact:
Rinse eyes immediately with water for at least 15 minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Seek medical attention if irritation continues.
Ingestion:
Do not induce vomiting.
Rinse mouth with water and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
Fire-Fighting Measures of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide to extinguish fires involving Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media:
Avoid using direct water jets, as this may spread the fire.
Protective Equipment:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing when fighting fires involving Alpha-phosphatidylcholine.
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Accidental Release Measures of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Personal Precautions:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles.
Avoid direct contact and inhalation of dust.
Environmental Precautions:
Prevent the material from entering drains, sewers, or water sources.
Contain and clean up spills promptly to minimize environmental impact.
Cleanup Methods:
Sweep or vacuum up the spilled material and place it in a suitable container for disposal.
Clean the area with water and detergents if necessary.
Exposure Controls/Personal Protective Equipment of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Exposure Limits:
Follow local regulatory guidelines for occupational exposure limits.
Ensure exposure is minimized in accordance with these limits.
Personal Protective Equipment:
Respiratory Protection:
Use an appropriate respirator if ventilation is inadequate or if there is a risk of inhaling dust or fumes.
Hand Protection:
Wear protective gloves to avoid skin contact.
Eye Protection:
Use safety goggles or face shields to protect eyes from splashes or dust.
Skin Protection:
Wear protective clothing to prevent skin contact, especially if handling large quantities.
Identifiers of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
CAS: 8002-43-5
Molecular Formula: C42H80NO8P
Molecular Weight (g/mol): 750
MDL Number: MFCD00082428
InChI Key: JLPULHDHAOZNQI-JLOPVYAASA-N
Chemical Name: Alpha-phosphatidylcholine
Other Names: Phosphatidylcholine, Phosphatidylcholines, Alpha-phosphatidylcholine (as a general term), E322 (food additive code)
Chemical Formula: Variable (typically includes C40H80NO8P for phosphatidylcholine)
CAS Number: 8002-43-5
Molecular Weight: Variable (depends on the specific type of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine)
EC Number: 232-307-2
PubChem CID: 5280457 (for phosphatidylcholine, a common component of Alpha-phosphatidylcholine)
InChIKey: UHTKTVYAZUNSBE-UHFFFAOYSA-N (for phosphatidylcholine)
Properties of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Insoluble Matter: 0.02% max. (in hexane)
Color: Tan or Yellow
Acidity: 35mg KOH/g max.
Quantity: 250g
Infrared Spectrum: Authentic
Packaging: Plastic Bottle
Water: 1% max.
Merck Index: 15, 5483
Solubility Information
Solubility in water: negligible
Formula Weight: 750
Appearance: Yellow to brownish, viscous liquid or soft solid (depending on the form)
Odor: Mild, characteristic
Taste: Neutral to slightly nutty
Density: Approximately 0.97-1.01 g/mL
Melting Point: Typically ranges from 32°C to 36°C (90°F to 97°F) for the solid form
Boiling Point: Not well-defined due to complex composition
Solubility:
In Water: Partially soluble
In Organic Solvents: Soluble in chloroform, ethanol, and other organic solvents
pH: Typically neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6-7)
Viscosity: Viscous liquid, varying with temperature and concentration
Refractive Index: Varies with type and concentration, generally around 1.48
Flash Point: Not well-defined due to complex composition
Storage Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place; avoid exposure to heat and moisture
Specifications of Alpha-Phosphatidylcholine:
Appearance: Yellow to brownish, viscous liquid or soft solid
Odor: Mild, characteristic
Taste: Neutral to slightly nutty
Density: 0.97-1.01 g/mL
pH: 6-7
Viscosity: Varies, typically high for liquid forms
Phosphatidylcholine Content: Typically 20-30% (depending on the source)
Phosphatidylethanolamine Content: Varies, often present in lesser amounts
Moisture Content: Generally <1%
Acid Value: Typically <40 mg KOH/g
Peroxide Value: Typically <10 meq/kg
Color (Gardner Scale): Varies, often around 8-12 for liquid forms
Solubility:
In Water: Partial solubility, forms colloidal solutions
In Organic Solvents: Soluble in chloroform, ethanol, and other organic solvents
Flash Point: Not well-defined due to complex composition
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture
