Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2009; 90(4): 1056–1060) examined anxiety in relation to circulating choline levels. This cross-sectional study included 5,918 adults drawn from two age groups: 46–49 years and 70–74 years.
Anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The researchers found an inverse relationship between plasma choline levels and anxiety, meaning that individuals with higher choline levels tended to report fewer anxiety symptoms. This relationship did not extend to depression, and no association was observed between plasma choline levels and depressive symptoms.
These findings suggest that choline status may be linked with anxiety-related symptoms, though the observational nature of the study does not establish cause and effect. Choline also plays a role in brain function and neurotransmitter activity.
Choline: Functions and Dietary Sources
Choline is often grouped with the B-complex vitamins and works closely with inositol as a structural component of lecithin. It is naturally present in foods such as egg yolks, liver, brewer’s yeast, and wheat germ.
Choline plays several important physiological roles:
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It supports normal fat and cholesterol metabolism
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It helps prevent excess fat accumulation in the liver
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It facilitates the transport of fats into cells
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It is essential for maintaining healthy myelin sheaths that insulate nerve fibers
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It contributes to normal liver and gallbladder function and supports bile flow
Low choline status has been linked with fat accumulation in the liver and has been discussed in relation to conditions such as fatty liver disease. Researchers have also explored possible links between choline deficiency and broader cardiometabolic concerns, including vascular health, though these relationships remain an area of ongoing investigation.
