1. Phospholipids are a class of lipids (fats) and a major
component of cell walls. They help repair and maintain cells, so as
to keep them fluid and whole. Without enough phospholipids, cell
walls would be less efficient in their roles, such as allowing
nutrients to enter and waste to leave. The ability of cells to
transmit their messages is also impaired, which can cause cell
damage. In contrast, when phospholipids are provided, these
messages can be amplified and the membrane structure maintained.
Phospholipids exist in high amounts in the brain and nerves. Types
of phospholipids include: phosphatidyl serine, phosphatidyl
choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine and phosphatidyl inositol.
2. The first phospholipid identified was lecithin in egg yolk,
by Theodore Nicolas Gobley, a French chemist and pharmacist, in
1847. The word lecithin originated from the Greek "Lekithos,"
referring to egg yolk. Lecithin is a rich source of phosphatidyl
choline, which is a precursor to acetyl choline, a major
neurotransmitter and key brain chemical for memory, concentration,
learning and muscle control.
3. Phosphatidyl choline maintains healthy myelin, the sheath
that covers and protects nerves, thereby ensuring the smooth
running of nerve signals to the brain.
4. In addition, phosphatidyl choline helps bile deal with
cholesterol, thereby supporting balanced cholesterol levels. It
also helps bile emulsify fats (mix with water), for easier
absorption and use, and helps reduce build-up of fat in the liver
and arteries.
5. Studies indicate that phosphatidyl serine supplementation
might be beneficial for children with attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder. About 1.7% of the UK population, mostly
children, have ADHD. Typical symptoms include: impulsiveness,
restlessness, hyperactivity and inattentiveness. ADHD often
prevents children from learning and socialising well.
6. These classes of fats are concentrated in the brain cells,
especially phosphatidyl serine, which is found in almost every cell
in the body, as well as the brain, making up about 70% of its nerve
tissue mass. There, it aids in the storage, release and activity of
many vital neurotransmitters and their receptors, including acetyl
choline, noradrenalin, serotonin and dopamine. It also aids
cell-to-cell communication.
7. Phosphatidyl serine helps maintain optimum brain function,
concentration, mood and memory, all of which decline with age.
8. Studies have shown that phosphatidyl serine could be useful
for athletes, as it may help speed up recovery and prevent muscle
soreness. It may also be useful for reducing exercise-induced
stress by balancing the increased cortisol levels caused by
exercise.
9. Phosphatidyl inositol is found in all cells, but is
especially abundant in the brain, where it can make up 10% of the
brain's phospholipids.
10. The lesser-known phosphatidyl ethanolamine, also known as
cephalin, plays a role in blood clotting.
