In 1850 a man by the name of Maurice Gobley discovered lecithin when he isolated the fatty substance in egg yolks and discovered that it was the substance that allowed oil to mix with water. Lecithin is a naturally occurring fatty substance which can be found in foods such as whole grains, soybeans, egg yolks, legumes, brewer's yeast, wheat germ and fish. Many times it is used in processed foods as an emulsifier.

Lecithin's emulsification properties aid the body in the absorption of fats. In 1999, a study was performed which suggests the metabolism of cholesterol in the digestive system can be improved through intake of soy lecithin. For that reason, lecithin is a recommendation among many experts as a natural treatment for high cholesterol. Some studies have also shown it to be effective in treating neurological and liver disorders.

It is a good source of polyunsaturated fats and aids in the prevention of arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and aids in the absorption of thiamine by the liver and Vitamin A by the intestine. Aside from that, the body breaks lecithin down into the B vitamin choline, which aids the liver in metabolizing fat and forms lipoproteins. It also contains linoleic acid and inositol.

Lecithin also provides some great benefits to brain function, and is a recommendation among many including myself for the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. The protective sheaths that surround the brain are composed of lecithin. Studies regarding the choline in lecithin suggest that it may have the ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and impact the production of a neurotransmitter that facilitates brain function known as acetylcholine.

Most lecithin comes from soybeans although egg lecithin is popular also. It can be found in capsule, liquid and granule form. I personally favor the granules as they contain a higher dosage per serving and I sprinkle a tablespoon into slow cooked oats.

It is a top recommendation in both my books on treating & preventing Alzheimer's disease and lowering cholesterol.