Benefits To The Brain From Choline

Choline is an essential nutrient found in many foods, particularly meats, eggs and animal products. In the brain, choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. Choline-deficiency may increase the risk for liver disease and atherosclerosis. Its effectiveness as a brain supplement, or nootropic, for healthy adults is not well supported by scientific evidence, although some animal studies have shown that choline supplements can enhance the memory of developing fetuses. Choline also has some promise for slowing the effects of Alzheimer's disease. Talk to your doctor before taking any of the choline salts as a dietary supplement.

May Enhance Brain Development

Studies with animals suggest that choline supplements in utero can lead to long-term benefits for memory. Especially in rats, choline deprivation or supplementation can cause lifelong changes in the structure and development of the hippocampus region of the brain, according to a 2009 study published in the journal "Nutrition Review."

May Decrease Risk of Neural Tube Defects

Currently no studies have directly researched whether humans benefit from choline supplements, but choline deficiency in babies has been linked to neural tube defects, or NTD. According to a December 2009 newsletter published by Kansas State Nutritional News, foods with naturally high levels of choline that are safe for pregnant women include eggs, beef liver and milk, as well as the vegetables broccoli and cauliflower.

May Prevent Dementia

Due to its role in the development of the hippocampus, some believe choline may help prevent forms of dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. However, this claim is not proven, and studies of those suffering with dementia indicated few benefits from choline supplements, according to the Kansas State Nutrition News.

Role in Anxiety

Low choline levels are associated with higher rates of anxiety, reports Norwegian researchers in a 2009 study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition."

Role in Depression

While this may seem to indicate that choline could benefit those with anxiety, a symptom of depression, caution is advised as other research indicates that high choline levels may be associated with another common mental health issue, depression. A 2006 study published in the "McGill Journal of Medicine" indicates that children with major depressive disorder have higher levels of choline in the brain than children who are not depressed. Clearly, brain chemistry and choline synthesis is complex and it is not recommended to take choline as a subsititute for psychiatric care.