lipotropic factors.pptx

Lipotropic factors

1. Fatty liver Fatty liver disease (steatosis) is a common condition caused by having too much fat build up in your liver. A healthy liver contains a small amount of fat. It becomes a problem when fat reaches 5% to 10% of your liver’s weight.

2. Choline; Choline is the major lipotrope in mammals and other known lipotropes are important only insofar as they contribute to the synthesis of choline. Choline is essential for fat metabolism. Choline functions as a methyl donor and it is required for proper liver function. Though choline can be synthesized from methionine or serine, mammals don’t produce a sufficient amount on their own. Liver, eggs, wheat bran, meat, and broccoli are dietary sources of choline.

3. Inositol ; Inositol exerts lipotropic effects as well. An “unofficial” member of the B vitamins, inositol has even been shown to relieve depression and panic attacks. Oranges and cantaloupe are high in inositol.

4. Methionine ; Methionine, an essential amino acid, is a major lipotropic compound in humans. When estrogen levels are high, the body requires more methionine. Estrogens reduce bile flow through the liver and increase bile cholesterol levels. Methionine helps deactivate estrogens. Egg whites are high in methionine.

5. Betaine hydrochloride ; Betaine hydrochloride is a powerful lipotropic and increases gastric acid.Betaine itself (in a non-hydrochloric form, also known as TMG or Trimethylglycine) also has a lipotropic effect. Quinoa is high in betaine. Oxibetaine; is another agent listed as a lipotropic compound.