Short answer
If you have been diagnosed with any of the stated symptoms (below), lecithin may be very beneficial. Otherwise, it's best to moderate your consumption and be aware of the possible side effects. Also, it is not recommended during pregnancy.
Recommended Alternative
A fairly even ratio of beneficial and harmful qualities. Moderation is important. Very general topics that can lean towards both sides of the spectrum will be placed here as well. Rice, for example, can be good or bad depending on the type.
View Full Grading System
Category 'A'
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. Side effects are rare. Things rated an 'A+' are typically necessary for survival (for example, water).
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. A few harmful qualities may be associated, but only under certain circumstances such as an allergic reaction.
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. Harmful qualities may be associated, but aren't usually serious.
It is important to note that even the best things in life can become bad in immoderate amounts. So, although something may be rated an 'A+', overconsumption/overdoing can bring unwanted effects.
Category 'B'
Very beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B+' may have a few harmful qualities to pay attention to.
Overall beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B' may have some harmful qualities to pay attention to.
More beneficial to your health than not. However, harmful qualities are most likely associated and shouldn't be overlooked.
The main difference between category 'A' and category 'B' is the harmful qualities typically present in 'B' items. Serious side effects are usually uncommon, but are still possible and should be taken note of.
Category 'C'
Both beneficial and harmful qualities associated. Things rated a 'C+' are typically a bit more on the beneficial side. Still, moderation is important.
A fairly even ratio of beneficial and harmful qualities. Moderation is important. Very general topics that can lean towards both sides of the spectrum will be placed here as well. Rice, for example, can be good or bad depending on the type.
More harmful than beneficial. Side effects are common, especially when consumed/done excessively. Moderation is very important.
Category 'C' usually denotes to both good and bad qualities. When it comes to this category, it is important to keep this word in mind: moderation.
Category 'D'
Harmful to your health. Although benefits may be associated, the bad most likely outweighs the good. Moderation is very important.
Harmful to your health. A few benefits may be associated, but the bad outweighs the good. Moderation is extremely important.
Harmful to your health. Very few, if any, benefits are present. Things in this category should be avoided as much as possible.
Category 'D' is typically for things that are more harmful than beneficial. While consuming/doing something unhealthy once in a blue moon shouldn't hurt, we definitely recommend eliminating 'D' items as a regular part of your routine/diet.
Category 'F'
Category 'F' is for things that fail to bring anything beneficial to the table, and are very harmful to your health. We recommend completely avoiding anything in this category. Long-term side effects of 'F' items are usually very serious.
Category 'N'
'N' stands for neutral. Things placed into this category are generally (a) neither good nor bad for you, or (b) lack the necessary evidence to reach any conclusions.
Long answer
Lecithin is a fatty substance that is found in many plants' and animals' tissue. Used as a supplement and found in many foods as an additive, it is useful in treating various types of diseases such as Alzheimer’s (including dementia), gallbladder disorder and even liver problems. You can also moisturize your skin effectively with the direct application of lecithin. It has high quantities of fatty acids that can help build a barrier on your skin and prevent loss of moisture.
Many studies show that lecithin contains a unique compound known as acetylcholine which is widely used in treating patients who are suffering from memory loss. Having a regular dose of lecithin can help those patients improve cognitive function.
Even though lecithin is considered generally safe, there is evidence of side effects in the people who use it on a regular basis. Some of the common side effects of consuming it are nausea, diarrhea, increased salivation, and loss of appetite. There have also been signs of allergic reactions such as breathing problems, swelling of lips, face, throat, and even the tongue. Lecithin is also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can affect the fetal developmental process.
Possible short-term side effects
- nausea
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increased salivation
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diarrhea
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loss of appetite
Possible long-term side effects
- hepatitis (research insufficient)
Commonly found in
- seafood
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eggs
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dairy products
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various vegetables
Benefits
- treats alzheimer's
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treats liver ailments
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treats dementia
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assists fat mobilization
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treats gallbladder disorder
Our Wellness Pick
(what is this?)
NOW Sunflower Lecithin
- Naturally occurring choline
- Supports brain health
- Non-GMO supplement
- Promotes healthy membranes
Learn More!
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Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-28-2015
Last updated: 12-15-2023
Thank you for your feedback!
Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-28-2015
Last updated: 12-15-2023
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