Choline is commonly grouped with the B vitamins. Strictly speaking, choline is not classified as a vitamin because the human body can synthesize small amounts of it. However, endogenous production is insufficient to meet physiological needs, making dietary intake of choline necessary for health.
Most choline in the body is found in phospholipids, particularly phosphatidylcholine (lecithin). Choline plays an important role in maintaining the structural integrity of cell membranes, which are partly composed of phospholipids. It is also involved in cell signaling, the process by which cells communicate to coordinate function within tissues and organs.
Choline is required for fat metabolism, and inadequate intake can lead to the accumulation of fat in the liver. In addition, choline is necessary for the synthesis of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory, muscle control, and autonomic nervous system function.
Research published in FASEB Journal (e-published January 29, 2008) examined the relationship between dietary choline intake and breast cancer risk. The study compared dietary data from 1,508 women with breast cancer and 1,556 women without breast cancer.
The researchers reported that women with the highest choline intake—defined as more than 450 mg per day—had a lower incidence of breast cancer compared with women consuming lower amounts. Women consuming approximately 450 mg of choline per day had a 24% lower risk of breast cancer compared with women consuming less than 200 mg per day.
The authors noted that these findings suggest a relationship between choline intake and breast cancer risk, while emphasizing the observational nature of the data.
Educational note:
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.
