Overview
Choline is an essential nutrient that may play a role in Alzheimer's disease. Research regarding the connection between choline and Alzheimer's is still in the beginning stages and currently there is no cure for Alzheimer's. However, preliminary studies have shown a promising relationship between choline, Alzheimer's and acetylcholine, a choline-derived neurotransmitter.
Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia and occurs when healthy brain tissue degenerates, according to the Mayo Clinic. Alzheimer's results in the loss of memory and mental abilities. According to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), choline may have a relationship to Alzheimer's because it is part of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which plays a major role in brain function.
Choline
The nutrient choline is synthesized by the body, but must also be consumed in the diet. Food sources of choline include soybeans, egg yolks, butter, peanuts, potatoes, cauliflower, lentils, oats, sesame seeds and flax seeds. Choline is used for cell synthesis and communication, formation of acetylcholine and the breakdown and transportation of dietary fat. According to the Linus Pauling Institute (LPI), the recommended adequate intake for choline is 425 to 550 mg per day for adults. BIDMC states that preliminary results from studies that have administered supplemental choline to Alzheimer's patients have been mixed.
Acetylcholine
According to the LPI, acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter involved in muscle control and memory and is made from choline. Alzheimer's has been associated with a deficit of acetylcholine. This may be due to the lack of an enzyme that converts choline into acetylcholine, or a reduced amount of choline altogether.
Cholinesterase Inhibitors
Cholinesterase inhibitors are a group of Alzheimer's medications that aim to increase levels of acetylcholine. Examples of cholinesterase inhibitors include donopezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon) and galantamine (Razadyne). According to the Mayo Clinic, about 50 percent of patients treated with cholinesterase inhibitors show no improvement. Side effects of the medications include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
Lecithin
Lecithin, a fatty substance in foods, is a major source of choline. It is made up of a type of choline called phosphatidylcholine (PC). According to the LPI, large doses of lecithin have been used to treat Alzheimer's-related dementia in order to increase acetylcholine; however, studies have not confirmed any benefit. Lecithin is derived from soy and is used as an emulsifier in many food applications. Products that may contain lecithin include baked goods, snack foods, dairy products, canned foods and instant or convenience foods.
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