What it does
Contributes to cell membranes, acetylcholine and transport of fats from the liver.
Possible deficiency symptoms
Inadequate choline can cause liver or muscle damage in deficiency studies; nonspecific symptoms do not diagnose it.
Food sources
Eggs; liver; fish; soybeans; poultry; beans.
Supplement forms
Choline bitartrate and phosphatidylcholine are examples.
Before taking a supplement
Large supplemental amounts can cause fishy body odor, sweating and low blood pressure.
Questions for your visit
Could my diet, medicines, absorption or another condition explain my concern? What evidence would support treatment, and how would we check whether it helps?
Names you may see
Choline
Sources & perspective
This is an editorial adaptation of the Purser Wellness nutrient reference app. Purser teaching connections are labeled separately from clinical interpretation. Private cases and individual treatment protocols are not reproduced.
Use the public resources below for additional context.
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Choline
