Choline and Inflammation

Choline is a nutrient considered to be essential, as it is needed for several functions in your body and must come from your diet since your body does not produce adequate amounts. Densie Webb, PhD, RD, says in the April 2011 issue of "Today's Dietician" that research is beginning to reveal the various functions of choline and how its value in the diet is potentially overlooked. Choline is important for all ages to aid in the prevention of inflammatory processes related to chronic disease.

Function of Choline

Primary functions of choline are in the synthesis of membrane phospholipids and neurotransmitters known as acetylcholine. Choline assists with renal function and the conversion of one amino acid to another, such as homocysteine to methionine. Obtaining adequate choline while you are pregnant or breastfeeding is important because of the increased needs of the baby, explains the August 2010 "Journal of the American Dietetic Association." Deficiencies in choline can lead to major health conditions such as liver damage.

Role of Choline in Inflammation

Deficiencies of choline stores result in increased inflammation. Low levels of choline increase plasma levels of an amino acid known as homocysteine, known to be involved in inflammation. Increased levels of homocysteine are associated with chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer and cognitive decline. Metabolism is altered when choline isn't available to assist with molecular conversion.

Research

A study published in the February 2008 issue of "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" assessed the effects of choline levels and low-grade inflammation in the body of healthy men and women. Dietary intakes of choline were assessed as well as markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor. Participants in the study who consumed more than 310 mg of choline each day had lower levels of inflammatory molecules.

Recommendations

For men, 550 mg of choline each day is recommended, and 425 mg is recommended for women, according to the Institute of Medicine. Choline is found in eggs and organ meat and is created from the body's production of phosphatidylcholine. However, the amount created by your body is inadequate for what you need. Additional foods that provide choline include non-fat milk, wheat germ, chicken, beef and pork. Eggs are the best source of choline.