What Is Lecithin And What Is It Used For?

Lecithin is a type of fat found in certain body tissues and plants. It consists chemically of phospholipids with phosphoric acid, choline, glycerol, and one or more fatty acids.

While its name may be reminiscent of supplements, lecithin is a natural ingredient. It is part of the tissues of humans as well as other animals and even some plants. It is a substance that is regularly produced as a result of the normal digestive process.

Lecithin was first discovered in egg yolk in 1850.  Its name comes from the Greek word for egg:  lekhitos. However, it can be obtained from many different sources, the most significant of which are:

• Soy
• Rapeseed
• Cotton
• Sunflower seeds
• Eggs
• Other animal fats

Main uses of lecithin

Lecithin has many uses in various industries. It is used in the food and pharmaceutical industries to make food and cosmetics. It can also be purchased as a supplement or used to make homemade pastries and other foods.

Lecithin as a supplement

The supplement is one of the most popular uses of lecithin. In this case, the  most common alternative is usually lecithin from soy, which can be purchased in the form of crumbs or oil capsules. It can also be made from sunflower seeds or egg yolks.

Lecithin has a good nutritional composition as well as numerous properties that  make it beneficial for the body. Below we have listed some of the benefits of lecithin:

• Controlling blood cholesterol levels is one of the best known uses and the reason why most people use lecithin as a supplement. Lecithin can lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).

• Lecithin helps in the digestion of people with ulcerative colitis. It is full of phosphatidylcholine, which nourishes the intestinal mucosa. Researchers have found an improvement in the digestive process in patients whose intestinal mucosa is often very sensitive.
• Lecithin can be used during lactation to prevent, but not treat , clogging of the milk ducts . The Canadian Breastfeeding Organization recommends its use. Thanks to lecithin, milk loses its stickiness, making it more difficult to block milk ducts.
• Lecithin improves cognitive functions  thanks to choline, which plays a significant role in brain development. It can help improve memory.
• Lecithin can bring relief to menopause. This is based on  a study recently published by the Nutrition Journal  . It showed a reduction in fatigue and an increase in energy in menopausal women. However, further research is needed to support these claims.

Use of lecithin as a foodstuff

Regardless of its origin, lecithin has emulsifying properties. This means that lecithin is able to combine two liquids that would not normally mix well together,  such as oil and water. As a result, processed food products have a smooth and uniform appearance.

Emulsifiers are usually present in the following products:

• Bakery products such as cakes, pastries or bread. The emulsifier prevents them from drying out or rancidifying quickly. It also extends shelf life and gives these products a softer texture.
• Ice creams. They melt more slowly and have a smoother structure.
• Processed cheeses. Allow them to combine the liquid part with the fatty parts.

The European Union has approved lecithin as a food supplement in  accordance with EC 1333/2008. Lecithin is listed in the list of ingredients as E322.

Benefits of lecithin in skin care

The emulsifying properties of lecithin are useful when used in the cosmetics industry. As a result, it is commonly used as an ingredient in many creams. It makes it possible to achieve a soft and even texture.

Lecithin is also full of antioxidants, phosphorus, and vitamins E and A. So it is good to keep the skin moisturized and supple. It is able to restore the skin’s moisture balance and leave the skin soft, reduces flaking and increases elasticity.

Lecithin: risks and side effects

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) consider lecithin to be a safe ingredient or additive in the manufacture of both food and cosmetic products. These agencies have also allowed its use without setting ceilings.

The main risks of lecithin usually occur in people who are allergic to eggs or soy. So if you are taking lecithin supplements, you should find out where they come from. Please also read the product information of all manufacturers, because as we have noticed, lecithin is an ingredient in many of them.

However, it does not appear to have any other risks or side effects when used as an additive, as long as you follow the prescribed dosage. However, we recommend that you get the nutrients from the food itself and talk to an expert before using any supplements. Especially if you have an illness or are taking medication.

Lecithin is not just a supplement to treat cholesterol

While this is perhaps the best known property of lecithin as a supplement, it can also help in many other functions  and situations.

It stands out from other supplements with its ability to emulsify aqueous and oily substances, making the products smoother and softer. As a result,  lecithin is a very common ingredient in both food and cosmetic products.