What Are Lecithin Granules Used to Treat?

Lecithin granules are often made from soy and contain phosphatidylcholine. Lecithin is naturally occurring in meat products and egg yolks. Lecithin suppliers claim that lecithin can be used to treat a wide variety of ailments and improve body functions, such as cell development. Prior to taking any supplement, discuss the benefits and risks with a health care provider.

AIDS

• Lecithin is the active ingredient in an experimental drug called AL 721, which is being used to treat AIDS. The lecithin in AL 721 changes cell membranes so that the virus causing AIDS can not penetrate and infect the cell. Lecithin granules can be used instead of this experimental drug until it is approved and made available to the public.

Hepatitis

• Viral hepatitis may also benefit from the use of lecithin. The experimental drug AL 721 works for both AIDS and viral hepatitis by not allowing the virus to permeate the cell membrane. Until the drug is available, patients may try using lecithin in granule form.

Alzheimer's Disease

• The phosphatidylserine in lecithin granules helps support memory by improving cell membranes in the brain and improving brain metabolism. Taking lecithin as a supplement can delay the onset of diseases impacting memory, such as Alzheimer's, as well as improve the symptoms of memory loss.

High Cholesterol

• Lecithin attracts fats and lipids in the bloodstream, which helps keep cholesterol from accumulating in the arteries. This can reduce cholesterol and the associated risks.

Weight Loss

• Manufacturers of lecithin granules often claim that lecithin is beneficial to weight loss and weight management. They claim that lecithin keeps fats and lipids from dissolving in the body, allowing them to be passed through the body. While lecithin may work to reduce cholesterol in this manner, there is no evidence for weight loss caused by lecithin. Lecithin is not able to dissolve fat that is already stored in the body.