|
Lipotrophics
Methionine - Choline -
Inositol - Betaine
By Earl L. Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D.
Author of Vitamin Bible,
and Vitamin Bible for Your Kids
What Does Lipotropic Mean?
Lipotropic means fat-loving. Basically
lipotrophics are substances which can liquify or homogenize fats.
Americans eat 100 pounds of saturated fats per person per year --
that's 42 percent of our caloric intake in fat.
What are the Main Functions of Lipotropics?
They increase the production of lecithin by the
liver. This helps to solubilize cholesterol, thus lessening
cholesterol deposits in blood vessels and decreasing the chances of
some gallstone formation. (Most gallstones are made of
cholesterol.)
They prevent the accumulation of fats in the liver.
A fatty liver can cause sluggish liver functioning.
They detoxify amines (byproducts of protein
metabolism). This is important for people on high-protein
diets.
They increase resistance to disease. They
bolster the thymus gland to carry out its anti-disease function by:
-
stimulating the production of antibodies,
-
stimulating the growth of phagocytes, which
surround and gobble up invading viruses and microbes, and
-
recognizing and destroying foreign and abnormal
tissue.
What Are Some of the Important Functions of the Individual
Lipotropics?
Choline
Choline metabolizes fats. A deficiency can
lead to cirrhosis and fatty degeneration of the liver and hardening
of the arteries (arteriosclerosis and artherosclerosis).
Choline is being used today for ailments such as
gall bladder trouble, diabetes, Muscular Dystrophy, glaucoma,
arteriosclerosis, senility, and memory problems such as
forgetfulness. It detoxifies amines, which are byproducts of
protein metabolism. The best source of choline is lecithin.
Inositol
Inositol deficiency can lead to hair loss. It
works with Vitamin E to facilitate actions in the treatment of
Muscular Dystrophy. It is also used in nerve and muscle
disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis and Cerebral Palsy.
Caffeine can cause depletion of inositol.
Methionine
Methionine works with choline to detoxify amines,
which are the byproducts of protein metabolism. It acts as a
catalyst for choline and inositol, opening up their functions.
Along with choline, methionine aids in reducing liver fat and
protects the kidneys.
How are Lipotropics Supplied?
They come in tablet form. Usually 3 tablets
equal 1000 mg. or 1 gram of each lipotropic agent. Most
nutritionists and physicians prescribe 1-2 grams daily in three
divided doses. (Otherwise, 1-2 tablets taken 3 times daily
with food.)
© 1982 Earl L. Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D.
Top
Related products available in the NaturoDoc Store:
|
