Lipotropic factors
Lipotropic factors describe the action of Choline in the prevention and treatment of fatty livers. Lipotropic factors are produced naturally in the body. They are substances that have the ability to remove and prevent fatty deposits, such as Homocysteine, in the body. These nutrients essentially perform the task of mobilization and utilization of dietary fats. Lipotropic factors are important because they can help the liver function better as well as get rid of toxins. They are also needed in order to provide additional energy by burning the transported fat.
Lipotropic factors are found in the blood and act as natural emulsifiers. They function to hold together blood lipids in solutions and preventing the deposition of lipids within the cardiovascular system. Lipotropic substances work on the liver by allowing it to produce more [Lecithin]], which makes cholesterol more soluble. It also stimulates the thymus gland and makes the liver more resistant to disease.
Sources of Lipotropic Factors
- Choline is in foods such as egg yolks, organ meats, soybeans and fish.
- Inositol is in foods such as beans, brown rice, nuts, meats and whole grains.
- The body produces its own lipotropic factors when it has access to substances such as Choline, Inositol, Betaine, Folic Acid and B Vitamins.
- Other examples of lipotropic factors include Methionine or Ox bile salts.
Lipotropic supplements work by stimulating the liver to create more Lecithin and, thus, liquefy the cholesterol and ultimately get rid of it. There is some controversy in their use as no long-term research is currently available.
Risk of Deficiency
If the body is unable to produce enough lipotropic substances, fat and bile can build up in the liver and contribute to a number of different conditions.
