The liver is the largest organ of the human body. It plays an important role in the production of energy and detoxification of the body, and it makes a yellowish-greenish liquid called bile that helps digest food. Viral infections, excessive alcohol, poisons and certain drugs may damage the organ and lead to conditions such as cirrhosis, jaundice and liver cancer. Symptoms and treatments of liver diseases may vary, depending on the age of the patient and underlying condition. Some supplements such as lecithin may also help prevent and treat liver diseases.
About Lecithin
Lecithin is a mixture of chemical compounds such as phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidyl ethanolamine. It is used as an emulsifying agent in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. It is also used to treat a variety of conditions including high cholesterol, neurological disorders, immunodeficiency and liver ailments. It can be obtained from foods such as beef liver, steak, eggs, peanuts, cauliflower, oranges and soybeans. Natural and synthetic lecithin supplements are also available. Your doctor can help determine a dose and form that is right for you.
Research on Lecithin
Diets supplemented with lecithin mitigate liver damage in laboratory animals and offer significant protection against choleostatic liver disease characterized by impaired bile formation or obstructed bile flow and jaundice, according to a study published in the February 2007 issue of the journal "Pediatric Research." Science Daily also reported in May 2011 that lecithin components may improve regulation of glucose and fat in the liver, increase bile production and lower the risk of fatty liver disease. Lecithin supplements can also protect the liver from the harmful effects of the hepatotoxic agent galactosamine by normalizing the levels of various liver enzymes, say the researchers of a study published in the April 2010 issue of the "Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry." Lecithin products are used in Germany to treat several liver disorders, including chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, fatty liver disease and toxic liver damage.
Side Effects
Lecithin supplements are generally safe to use. Some side effects such as nausea, anorexia and excessive salivation have been reported occasionally. The interactions of lecithin supplements with other prescription and nonprescription medications have not been documented scientifically.
Precautions
Although lecithin products are available without a prescription, it is best to talk a health care professional before using it to prevent or treat liver diseases. It is also important to inform you doctor about pre-existing conditions and other medications you might be taking. Check if the product has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, and talk to a pharmacist to ensure the safety of the product.
References
- "Pediatric Research"; Dietary Lecithin Protects Against Cholestatic Liver Disease in Cholic Acid-Fed Abcb4- Deficient Mice; T. Lamireau, et al.; February 2007
- Science Daily: Lecithin Component May Reduce Fatty Liver, Improve Insulin Sensitivity
- "Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry"; Effect of Lecithin and Silymarin on D-Galactosamine Induced Toxicity in Isolated Hepatocytes and Rats; P. V. Raj, et al.; April 2010
- Drugs.com: Lecithin
