My Desert Island Supplement

I’ve been asked If I could have one supplement on a dessert island, what would it be? 

My answer is...Phosphatidylcholine, or “PC” for short. 

The reason is that nothing in the body can work properly without adequate amounts of phosphatidylcholine.   

What is Phosphatidylcholine? Phosphatidylcholine is an essential nutrient. It is perhaps the most important molecule among tens of thousands of molecules that comprise a cell, accounting for nearly 50% of the cell membrane. 

In fact, there isn’t one function of the body that doesn’t rely on phosphatidylcholine.  

The cell membrane is where virtually all the important metabolic reactions occur. Making PC critical for healthy cell membrane composition and function. But lowered phospholipid availability may sometimes limit these essential functions.   

• PC is so important for our cell membranes to be healthy and for our mitochondrial membranes to be healthy. Yet, studies show that 60-70% of people are depleted in the choline piece. 

• We can get some choline from foods like spinach, egg yolks, beets, meat –but this is not enough for sufficient or optimal levels.  And while the body can biosynthesize phospholipids from other substances, the process requires many enzymes and a great deal of energy. On top of that, some don’t absorb it very well due to their genetics. 

• Not only does phosphatidylcholine support healthy cell membrane composition and function, it also supports healthy choline levels and increases brain acetylcholine formation.  

• Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter important for memory as well as other body functions. Since PC helps acetylcholine levels, it is one of the supplements attracting a lot of attention for use in conditions like Alzheimer's’ disease or dementia. 

• When cells membranes are healthy, cells are healthy, which leads to healthy tissues, healthy organs – and ultimately healthy bodies and minds.  

• If you want to support your body at a cellular level – and a healthy heart, a healthy brain, or if you are planning on being pregnant and having a baby it is critical for your health and the baby's health to have optimal levels of phosphatidylcholine.    

• Unlike most other phosphatidylcholine products on the market, this product contains no other phospholipids. 

• Daily supplementation of PC may also help maintain healthy liver function, healthy cholesterol levels already within the normal range, and gastric mucosal protection. PC is widely used to support healthy aging.  

FAQs

Q: What are phospholipids, and why are they important?
A: Phospholipids are the building blocks of cellular membranes. Each phospholipid has a "head" that loves water (hydrophilic) and "tails" that love oil (hydrophobic). When they interact with water, these phospholipids form a thin, flexible layer called the cell membrane, which surrounds and protects cells. This membrane is essential for virtually all vital metabolic reactions in your body.

Q: How does phosphatidylcholine (PC) differ from other phospholipids?
A: Phosphatidylcholine is a specific type of phospholipid with a choline "head" and unsaturated fatty acid "tails." It accounts for nearly 50% of the cell membrane and plays a unique role in maintaining healthy cell function, supporting brain health, and assisting with cellular repair and protection.

Q: What does phosphatidylcholine do for your body?
A: Phosphatidylcholine supports:

• Healthy Cell Membranes: Maintains flexibility and permeability for optimal cellular function.
• Brain Health: Provides choline for acetylcholine production, essential for memory and cognitive function.
• Liver Function: Aids in detoxification and repairing liver cells.
• Detoxification: Enhances the body’s ability to remove harmful toxins.
• Lipid Metabolism: Supports fat digestion and healthy cholesterol levels.

Q: What happens if your body doesn’t have enough phospholipids?
A: While your body can make phospholipids, the process is energy-intensive and requires many enzymes. Insufficient phospholipids may limit critical cell functions, making supplementation helpful for maintaining cellular health and repairing damage.

Q: How does phosphatidylcholine support detoxification?
A: Phosphatidylcholine aids liver detoxification by supporting bile production and repair of liver cell membranes. This helps your body remove toxins more effectively, protecting cells from oxidative stress and damage.

Q: What is Polyenylphosphatidylcholine (PPC), and why is it special?
A: PPC is a highly purified form of phosphatidylcholine derived from soybeans. It contains unique molecules like DLPC (1,2-dilinoleoylphosphatidylcholine) that enhance its effectiveness in repairing cell membranes, supporting liver health, and promoting lipid metabolism.

Q: How does phosphatidylcholine benefit brain health?
A: Phosphatidylcholine supplies choline, a critical nutrient for producing acetylcholine—a neurotransmitter essential for memory, learning, and overall brain function. It also supports brain cell repair and resilience.

Q: Who can benefit from phosphatidylcholine supplementation?
A: Anyone looking to support their brain, liver, or cellular health can benefit. It may be especially helpful for those with:

• Liver conditions
• Cognitive decline
• Toxin exposure
• Digestive concerns
• High cholesterol or lipid imbalances

Q: Is phosphatidylcholine safe?
A: Yes, it’s generally considered safe when taken as directed. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or managing a medical condition.