Indications
Choline is a nutrient that the body needs to build cell membranes, make the nerve messenger acetylcholine and move fat out of the liver. It is included in multivitamin and tonic products to support general nutrition, liver health and normal nerve function, especially during recovery from illness, poor diet or periods of increased need.
How It Works
Choline is used by the body to make phosphatidylcholine (lecithin), a main building block of cell walls, and acetylcholine, a chemical that carries signals between nerves and muscles. It also helps the liver package and export fat, which helps prevent fat building up in the liver. The body makes a small amount on its own, but most comes from food such as eggs, meat, fish and beans.
Dosage and Administration
Choline is usually taken as part of a combination supplement. Take it as directed on the label or by your doctor. The usual adequate daily intake for adults from all sources is about 425 mg for women and 550 mg for men. Do not take more than the label says. Supplements are best taken with or after food.
Interactions
No important interactions are known at normal supplement amounts. If you take other vitamin or tonic products, check the labels so you do not take several products that contain the same ingredients. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you use.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to choline or any other ingredient in the product. People with trimethylaminuria (a rare condition causing a fishy body odour) should avoid choline supplements.
Side Effects
Choline is well tolerated at normal amounts. Large doses may cause a fishy body odour, sweating, stomach upset, diarrhoea, nausea or low blood pressure.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Choline is important for the baby’s brain development and needs are higher in pregnancy and breastfeeding (about 450 mg a day in pregnancy and 550 mg a day when breastfeeding, from all sources). Use supplements containing choline in pregnancy or while breastfeeding only as advised by your doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
Supplements do not replace a balanced diet. Keep to the amount on the label. Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, or if you are taking several supplements at the same time.
Overdose
Very high intakes (above about 3.5 g a day in adults) can cause fishy body odour, heavy sweating, vomiting, diarrhoea and low blood pressure with dizziness. If a large amount is taken, contact a doctor or poison centre.
Therapeutic Class
Nutritional supplement (vitamin-like nutrient).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.