Choline Protects the Brain from the Effects of Aging

Choline is needed for the production of acetycholine, necessary for brain function and memory.  It allows the transmission of nerve impulses from the brain through the central nervous system.  The fact that we produce as much as 70 percent less acetylcholine as we age, or perhaps because the acetylcholine that we do produce is less efficient, may be factors in the forgetfulness of the elderly and "brain aging" in general.  Disorders of the nervous system, such as Parkinson's disease, have benefited by treatment with choline.
 
Other benefits of choline are that hormone production and the function of the liver are aided by its ability to help metabolize fat and cholesterol.  It also assists in gallbladder regulation.  Deficiencies may cause cardiac symptoms, high blood pressure, gastric ulcers, and an inability to digest fats, and will cause excess fat to accumulate in the liver.
 
Choline can be obtained by eating egg yolks, lecithin, legumes, milk, soybeans, meat, and whole-grain cereals, and is available as a supplement.  It may be sold under the name phospatidylcholine or phosphatidylinositol, and you should take 1000 to 3000 milligrams daily.  Several nutrients, such as vitamin B12, folic acid, and the amino acid L-carnitine are necessary for it to be utilized by the body and may be included in the supplement.