Choline Chloride

These days, choline chloride, an organic compound is produced on a large scale; as it is used to produce various types of animal feeds. It accelerates the growth of animals. So it is added to all types of animal feeds, especially chicken feeds. Presence of this compound in dog food ensures proper fat metabolism and nerve function. In human beings, this compound is present in the tissues of the nervous system.

Choline Chloride

Nutritional Benefits
The compound choline chloride plays an important role in fetal development and also in the development of infants, toddlers and children. It is used in the production of folic acid and vitamin B12. It helps keep the fat in liquid form and prevents arteries, liver and gallbladder from accumulating unwanted cholesterol or fat. Doctors usually prescribe choline chloride supplements to lower cholesterol levels. It helps protect the liver from damage and thus helps maintain liver function. It is also used to treat sleep problems, poor cognitive skills, depression, memory loss, Alzheimer's disease and asthma. The supplements help boost memory and elevate mood. It is necessary for the synthesis of, and maintenance of, the levels of acetylcholine, which regulates sleep, memory, movement and the thought processes. Choline chloride plays an important role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and thus, helps enhance brain function. Human body can synthesize this compound but along with aging, the production decreases, resulting in memory loss, poor learning and cognitive skills.

Postmenopausal women are advised to take choline chloride as it helps maintain mucous membranes moist. If taken during pregnancy, it ensures excellent memory and learning skills of the child. Choline is necessary for breaking up of fat in the body. Since energy is obtained from the fat reserves, athletes performing strenuous exercises might find it necessary to take supplements that contain this essential element. Citrus flavored choline chloride drinks are also available in market.

Scarcity of this compound in the body increases the risk of cancers, especially liver cancer. You can get enough choline from foods like beef, beef liver, eggs, cauliflower, wheat germ, soy foods, cod, salmon, broccoli, peanut butter, milk, etc. Those who follow a balanced and healthy diet, usually have enough choline in their body. As mentioned above, athletes, pregnant women, elderly people may need to take the supplements, or doctors may recommend nutritional supplements to treat certain conditions.

Side Effects
It is safe to take the supplements but you need to follow the instructions of the doctor regarding the dosage. Choline belongs to the group of B vitamins. It is highly soluble in water, so there isn't any problem regarding its solubility. But, very high consumption of choline chloride may result in side effects like rise in body temperature, sweating, a fishy body odor, gastrointestinal problems, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. It is also believed that excessive intake of choline leads to colon cancer and rectum cancer. More studies are required to prove this, but till then, it is better to avoid excessive consumption of this nutrient.

Dosage
Here is important information regarding the highest level of intake of choline that is not likely to cause harm:

• Kids 1-8 years: 1gram per day
• Children 9-13 years: 2 grams per day
• Teenagers 14-18 years: 3 grams per day
• Adults above 18 years of age: 3.5 grams per day

One should consult a physician before opting for choline chloride supplements. Dosage may vary according to age, sex, physical activity, overall health, etc. One can enjoy benefits of choline by consuming healthy food.