Lecithin Guide

Lecithin Guide

Lecithin is a naturally occurring substance that can provide choline and help support healthy liver function. Learn where it comes from, what it does, and what to consider when choosing a supplement.

✅ Reviewed by Jamieson's Science Team

Quick Answers

What is lecithin?

Lecithin is a naturally occurring mixture of fatty compounds found in foods and used in supplements.¹

What is lecithin used for?

Health Canada recognizes lecithin for helping support liver function.¹

Is lecithin a source of choline?

Yes. Lecithin contains phosphatidylcholine and can provide choline, an essential nutrient.

Where does lecithin come from?

Lecithin used in supplements can come from sources such as soy, sunflower, canola, and some animal sources. Jamieson uses soy lecithin.¹

What is lecithin?

Lecithin is a naturally occurring mixture of fatty substances called phospholipids. These compounds are found in the cells of plants and animals.¹

One of the main components of lecithin is phosphatidylcholine, which contains choline. Jamieson’s current formula uses soy-derived lecithin.

How does lecithin support the body?

Lecithin provides phospholipids that form part of cell membranes and can also act as a source of choline.

Health Canada recognizes lecithin for helping support liver function, which is the main approved use for lecithin supplements.¹

Which health goals can lecithin support?

Liver Health

Lecithin helps support normal liver function.¹

Everyday Wellness

Lecithin provides phospholipids and can act as a natural source of choline.

Choline Intake

Lecithin contains phosphatidylcholine, which can contribute choline to the diet.

How can lecithin fit into your routine?

Lecithin is often used as part of a routine focused on liver and everyday nutritional support.

For liver health: Lecithin is recognized for helping support normal liver function.¹
As a source of choline: Lecithin naturally contains phosphatidylcholine.
With meals: Jamieson directs adults to take its lecithin softgels with food.
Support your liver broadly: Balanced eating, regular movement, and limiting excess alcohol also matter for long-term liver health.

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine.

What should you look for in a lecithin supplement?

Start with the source and amount of lecithin, then consider whether the format fits your routine.

Check the source: Lecithin may come from soy, sunflower, canola, or other approved sources.¹
Check the amount: Health Canada’s lecithin monograph covers daily amounts from 1 to 6 g for adults.¹
Look for choline information: Some products may identify how much choline the lecithin contributes.
Check for allergens: Soy-derived lecithin may matter for people managing soy allergies.
Choose a convenient format: Jamieson Lecithin comes in softgels.
Look for an NPN: Choose a licensed natural health product with an eight-digit NPN.
Look for quality: Jamieson products are backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise.

For more than 100 years, Jamieson has combined scientific expertise with rigorous quality testing. Every product is backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise.

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine.

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FAQs

What is lecithin used for?

Health Canada recognizes lecithin for helping support liver function in adults.¹

Is lecithin the same as choline?

No. Lecithin is a mixture of phospholipids, while choline is an essential nutrient. Lecithin contains phosphatidylcholine, which can provide choline.

What is soy lecithin?

Soy lecithin is lecithin derived from soybeans. Jamieson’s current Lecithin formula uses 1,200 mg of soy lecithin per softgel.

Sources

1. Health Canada. Lecithin Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated March 28, 2025.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/dbImages/mono_lecithin_english.pdf

2. Health Canada. Natural Health Products Ingredients Database — Lecithin. https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/ingredReq?id=246