Mechanisms of action, potential adverse effects, and the cognitive role of lecithin with a focus on memory function
David Janitzek
2026-03-17
4 min. read
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Lecithin constitutes a complex assembly of bioactive compounds, among which phospholipids—indispensable structural components of biological membranes—form the predominant group. The central constituent of this mixture is phosphatidylcholine, a glycerol ester linked to two higher fatty acid residues and a phosphate group to which a choline molecule is attached, a compound of pivotal metabolic significance. These phospholipids fulfill a fundamental role in maintaining the integrity and fluidity of cell membranes across all cell types in the organism, underscoring their indispensability for basic life processes. Furthermore, choline released from lecithin through metabolic pathways serves as a substrate for acetylcholine synthesis—the primary neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic system, which governs a spectrum of cognitive functions, including the mechanisms of memory encoding and the consolidation of memory traces.
The action of lecithin
Lecithin, as a source of choline, has several properties. As mentioned above, it is a component of the membranes of all cells. Proper choline supply during pregnancy is extremely important for the proper development of the baby's nervous system. In association with folic acid, it tolerates the harmful action of homocysteine, a compound that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including atherosclerosis. Choline is also essential for the synthesis of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter.
Children's lecithin
Choline is essential for the proper formation of progenitor cells (mother cells capable of differentiating into different cell types). Interestingly, pre-menopausal women because of continuous production of estrogen do not need to supply this compound in the same quantity as men or women who have gone through menopause. This is because choline is necessary for the normal formation of parent cells (which can differentiate into different types of cells). In fact, choline depends on the internal synthesis of the fetus.
It's a memory lecithin
The importance of lecithin or choline in improving cognitive function is unclear. Experimental studies conducted until 2003 did not show any improvement in memory in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) or Parkinson's when taking lecithins. Recently, however, there have been positive effects of a 3-month supplementation with phospholipids derived from leucithin on memory and mood in people with AD. It is difficult to say whether healthy people should recommend choline supplementation to improve memory ability.
Lecithin has side effects
This compound in the digestive tract under the influence of gut bacteria can be converted into trimethyloamine (TMA). This gas is quickly absorbed and then gets to the liver, where it is oxidized to TMAO. Observational studies have shown that the higher the TMAo levels, the greater the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Suppose that the substance in the gut can be transformed into trimethyloamine, which is an essential element of the blood plasma membrane.