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How do I Choose the Best Lecithin Tablets?

Angela Crout-Mitchell
Angela Crout-Mitchell

Lecithin is a mineral that can be found naturally in several food sources, though many people choose to take it as a dietary supplement to ensure they are receiving the correct amount. The use of lecithin tablets helps the body defend against cardiovascular disease and protects cells from damaging oxidation, among other health benefits. When choosing lecithin tablets, there are several factors to consider, including natural versus organic, chewable as opposed to easy to swallow tablets, and the correct dosage. As with any type of supplement, it is also important to be aware of any counter indications before choosing to take lecithin.

This mineral can be found in a wide variety of foods, including most plant sources, nuts and seeds, and beans. Lecithin is also found in cabbage, cauliflower, and green beans. Many people don't eat enough of these foods to fully reap the benefits of lecithin and choose to take a supplement to ensure their bodies are getting the proper amount of this nutrient.

Lecithin is found in cauliflower.
Lecithin is found in cauliflower.

In addition to being one of the most useful antioxidant supplements available for cardiovascular health, this mineral is also known to improve cholesterol levels and aid in repairing liver tissue when adversely affected by alcoholism. Lecithin tablets are used to reduce the effects of oxidative stress by protecting individual cells from damage. There is also a growing number of people who are choosing to use lecithin to treat the adverse effects of Alzheimer's disease.

Lecithin is often used as a supplement to assist in weight loss.
Lecithin is often used as a supplement to assist in weight loss.

There are several factors to consider when selecting the right lecithin tablets to optimize health. Most experts recommend choosing organic lecithin whenever possible, though as long as the product is all natural, many believe it is sufficiently safe. In regard to chewable or regular tablets, it appears to be a matter of preference, and many people choose to try out both versions. Dosage is very important when deciding on the correct lecithin tablet as well. Experts suggest that no more than 1,000 mg of this mineral should be taken daily, as lecithin is also found in food sources; most tablets are 1,000 mg in dosage.

Though considered healthy for most people, there are some suggested restrictions when taking lecithin. It is not recommended to give this mineral to children under the age of two and only with a doctor's knowledge and approval after that age. In most cases, pregnant and nursing women should avoid lecithin tablets, as there is a debate regarding the safety of the supplement for young babies and fetuses. Those choosing to take lecithin should be careful to handle the supplement properly by storing it in a dry, cool location away from light.

Discussion Comments

SteamLouis

I take egg lecithin 1200 mg tablets because I heard that soy has estrogenic effects (it acts like estrogen in the body). Others say that there is no soy in lecithin, so it can't affect hormonal levels. I'm not sure which is true, so I'm going to stick to egg lecithin for now.

burcidi

@literally45-- I take soy lecithin tablets. They're 1200mg/tablet and I take 1-2 tablets per day. There is usually a recommended dose on supplement bottles, so you can check the product label.

What you need to pay attention to in lecithin supplements is the concentration of phosphatidylcholine. This is the active ingredient in lecithin and not all supplements have the same amount. If you buy a supplement that has little phosphatidylcholine, it won't be effective. Some supplement manufacturers don't clarify this on the product label, so you may have to call them up or email them to check. The supplement should preferably have 20% phosphatidylcholine if not more.

literally45

What type of lecithin tablets is everyone taking? Do you buy soy lecithin or egg lecithin? How many tablets do you take per day and at what dose?

I've decided to take lecithin for my cholesterol, I just don't know which one I should buy and how much I should take.

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    • Lecithin is found in cauliflower.
      By: ExQuisine
      Lecithin is found in cauliflower.
    • Lecithin is often used as a supplement to assist in weight loss.
      By: Elenathewise
      Lecithin is often used as a supplement to assist in weight loss.