Choline and Inositol

Choline and Inositol - two words you probably haven't heard before. In the world of dietary supplements, however, they are an important combination of B vitamins, which are actually not vitamins. They are substances very similar to vitamins which support liver function and lipid metabolism - that is, fat metabolism. Choline is a water-soluble vitamin analogue. It is found in lecithin, which is common in many plant and animal tissues. Choline is a precursor for the neurotransmitter (i.e., carrier) acetylcholine - which is involved in many memory and muscle functions.

Choline is popular for its metabolizing effect on fats, thus assisting in weight loss. It's a micronutrient needed in the diet of a breastfeeding mother for proper child growth. It can be found in meat and eggs or in soybeans and peanuts. 

Inositol is an important building block for phospholipids and other biomolecules in the body. It's also known as vitamin B8, even though it's not directly a vitamin. The highest concentrations are found in the brain, where it allows neurotransmitter binding. The human body can produce it in the kidneys (through a two-phase process) in amounts of several grams per day. Some studies have shown the effect of high doses of inositol on reducing symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as other mental disorders. Sometimes it's used to cut hard drugs in street sales because it has similar color and chemical properties. Interestingly, it was also used in the filming of the movie Blow (2001).

The combination of these two substances (choline and inositol) significantly helps maintain normal liver function. They break down homocysteine and contribute to better fat metabolism. They positively influence a good quality sleep. They help in the correct metabolism of lipids. They increase appetite, alleviate loss of appetite, and stomach problems.

Vegetarians and vegans should particularly pay attention to proper choline intake. Meanwhile, athletes who drink more than 2.5 liters of fluid daily should replenish inositol - because choline is excreted in urine. Inositol's enemy is caffeine, so coffee and green tea lovers should consider replenishing it. The only symptom of choline deficiency is liver enlargement. Heavy alcoholics are also chronically lacking in it. If children grow too quickly, they might develop nephritis - causing blood pressure and cholesterol levels to rise. This is also a result of choline deficiency. High blood pressure can sometimes be reduced with a protein-rich diet - probably because the body produces choline from the amino acid methionine through this intake. 

Choline can be found in Brussels sprouts, eggs, liver, beef, salmon, and broccoli. Inositol can be found in fruits, especially citrus fruits, grains, nuts, and beans. The combination of choline bitartrate and inositol in a 1:1 ratio is ideal for the proper functioning of our body and can also be taken as a dietary supplement.