Is there a danger in taking lecithin or phosphatidylcholine? I heard that they may increase the risk of heart attacks.

Answer:

Although a direct link to heart attack has not been made, intake of choline might raise blood levels of the compound TMAO, which has been linked with adverse health effects. However, the form of choline seems to matter.

TMAO is produced from choline by the actions of microbes in the gut, turning choline into TMA, which is then absorbed and is converted by enzymes in the liver into TMAO. Higher blood plasma levels of TMAO have been linked with increased risk of heart attack and other major adverse cardiovascular events. TMAO can reduce normal cholesterol clearance and advance atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Sign in as a member to find out which forms of choline may increase TMAO levels and which do not seem to have an effect. Sources discussed include choline bitartrate, phosphatidylcholine, eggs (a source of lecithin), soy lecithin, and citicoline. Also learn about how certain diets may affect choline intake.

Be aware that a similar connection with TMAO and cardiovascular disease risk has been made for L-carnitine from red meat and, possibly, from supplements with L-carnitine, including acetyl-L-carnitine — see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplements Review for details.