Lecithin: Find Out Interesting Facts About This Power Substance!

Lecithin is the general name of a group of chemical lipid compounds that are used, among other things, in the cosmetics and food industries. 

Lecithin  is a phospholipid that is found in various body tissues and also in plants. It is made up of fatty acids, glycerine, phosphoric acid and choline. Most people think of a dietary supplement straight away, but it is a natural substance that is produced during the digestive process.

Lecithin was first isolated from egg yolk in 1850. The name of this substance is a reminder, because  lekhitos  means “egg” in the Greek language. But there are numerous other sources that contain lecithins. Some of them are:

• soy
• Rapeseed
• cotton
• Sunflower seeds
• Animal fat

The power substance lecithin

Lecithin is very versatile: It is used, for example, in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Many use this substance as a dietary supplement or in desserts and other dishes.

Lecithin as a dietary supplement

This power substance is very popular as a dietary supplement. Soy lecithin, which is available as a powder or oil in capsules, is usually used in this case. However, lecithins are also made from sunflower seeds or egg yolks.

The composition of the lecithins gives them  numerous health benefits. Some of them are:

• This substance is particularly popular for regulating cholesterol levels. Because lecithin can reduce LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) and increase HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol).
• Lecithins also improve digestion, which is particularly beneficial for people with ulcerative colitis. Because lecithins are rich in phosphatidylcholine, they nourish the intestinal lining. Researchers also observed improvements in digestive processes in patients who normally have sensitive intestinal lining.

• During breastfeeding, lecithin can prevent problems with the milk ducts,  but not treat them. The Canadian Breastfeeding Foundation therefore recommends lecithin to breastfeeding mothers. This makes the milk a little more viscous and therefore less likely to block the milk ducts.
• Lecithins also improve cognitive functions because they contain choline. This substance plays an essential role in brain development. It also improves memory performance.
• Potential benefits of lecithin in menopause  emerge from a recent study published in the  Nutrition Journal . In this study, scientists observed less fatigue and more energy in the menopausal participants. However, more studies are needed to confirm this.

Lecithin as an ingredient in dishes

Regardless of their origin, lecithins have emulsifying properties. So they are able to bind liquids like water and oil. The result is uniform and gentle.

That is why lecithins are used in the following foods:

• Baked goods such as cakes, bread or biscuits:  To prevent them from going rancid quickly. They extend the shelf life and also give the baked goods a pleasant, mild texture.
• Ice cream:  This then melts more slowly and is characterized by a very pleasant texture.
• Processed cheeses:  This ensures that the added liquid (usually water) combines well with the fat.

The use of lecithins as a food additive is regulated by the European Union in Directive EC1333 / 2008. This ingredient is marked with E322 on the labels.

Benefits for the skin

The emulsifying properties of lecithins also make them very popular in the cosmetics industry. They can be found in many creams because they allow a smooth, homogeneous texture.

In addition, lecithins are rich in antioxidants, phosphorus, and vitamins E and A.  Therefore, they are excellent for moisturizing the skin and making it elastic. The result is smooth, well-hydrated skin. This also reduces dandruff.

Risks and Side Effects

The  Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) consider lecithin a safe additive, both in food and cosmetics. In addition, the use without maximum values ​​is authorized.

However, there is a risk if there is an allergy to eggs or soy. If those affected want to take lecithins as a dietary supplement, they must therefore be well informed about the origin of the product. It is also  advisable to analyze the labels of finished products, in which lecithins are also very often present. 

This substance does not appear to have any other risks or side effects if the recommended dose is respected. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to seek advice from an expert. This is especially important if you have an illness or if you are taking medication.

Lecithin not only helps with high cholesterol levels!

While this substance is well known for regulating cholesterol levels,  it also has other very beneficial properties. It is also popular as an emulsifier to combine water and oil and produce homogeneous, smooth products. Lecithin is therefore used in food and cosmetics.