Sunflower lecithin, like soy lecithin, is plant-based. The biggest difference between the two is that sunflower is a non-GMO lecithin source. Lecithin from sunflowers is extracted without chemicals through a cold pressing process that’s similar to how virgin olive oil is extracted. The process begins by dehydrating the sunflower seeds and separating the remains into three parts:
Dosages and Recommended Intake While there’s no set dosage, some manufacturers recommend taking 2400 milligrams—when consuming lecithin in capsule form—per day. However, the team at LECITEIN recommends that you consult your physician before consuming any set dosage. Uses of Sunflower Lecithin Like other types of lecithin, sunflower lecithin also comes in powdered, capsules, granulated, and liquid forms. Unfortunately, each form has a different use case and they can’t be used interchangeably. For example, granulated lecithin is majorly used in health supplements. Let’s have a look at some of the uses of sunflower lecithin in various industries: In Pharmaceuticals In the manufacturing of medicines and other pharmaceutical products, sunflower lecithin is used as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and source of choline. It also keeps the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's disease at bay. And, its pharmaceutical uses don’t end there. Sunflower lecithin also helps with acne, high blood pressure, liver health, and joint health. In Fitness Sunflower lecithin is commonly known to metabolize fat, lower Low-density Lipoprotein or LDL, and decrease cholesterol levels. It also improves gut health, brain activity, and the flow of milk in breastfeeding mothers. These properties have made it the main ingredient in health supplements. In Paints Furthermore, lecithin from sunflower seeds intensifies paint pigments and protects iron from rusting, if the paint containing lecithin is applied. Sunflower lecithin may also be added to surface protection coatings. In Pet Food Like many human foods, lecithin is also an additive in pet foods, especially for dogs, cats, and birds. It’s added because of its high-fat content and traces of protein. Incidentally, it also promotes digestibility and a healthy immune system in animals. In Cosmetics and Skincare Sunflower Lecithin is also considered a good moisturizer and an antioxidant. Many cosmetic products require emulsions of water and oil as well. Hence, it’s a valuable material for the cosmetics industry. Besides, sunflower lecithin empowers active substances to permeate the skin more deeply increasing the efficacy of treatments. It is commonly added to creams, lotions, and anti-ageing skincare products to protect and heal the skin from wrinkles and patches. In Confectionary and Baking Because of its emulsification capabilities, sunflower lecithin has been used in the confectionary and baking industry for ages. It serves as an emulsifier in caramels, toffees, and brittles. Since it can keep the fats from separating, the final products are more delicate and have a richer texture. Also, its antioxidants contribute toward extending the shelf life of chocolates and confections. Side Effects of Sunflower Lecithin Although sunflower lecithin doesn’t contain any allergens and is comparatively safer than soy lecithin, there are some reservations connected to its use since it’s not regulated similarly to prescription drugs. Still, if a person has known allergies to sunflower oil or seeds, then, as a precaution they should avoid consuming anything that contains sunflower lecithin. It should also be noted that consuming more than 5000 milligrams of sunflower lecithin in a day can have inverse effects on your health. These can include:
Additionally, sunflower lecithin is documented to counteract antidiabetic drugs by lowering blood sugar levels. So, always remember to keep your sugar levels in check when consuming or utilising anything that contains sunflower lecithin. Other medicines it is known to interfere with are:
While lecithin from every source has its own negatives and positives, lecithin from sunflower seeds is considered the healthiest and most useful among the group. Its benefits are far greater than its side effects or adverse effects, making it an outstanding product for countless industries. It is abundant in vitamins, minerals, and other vital substances that the human body needs and thrives on. Lastly, sunflower lecithin has an almost non-existent history of allergic reactions. Besides, it is the only source of lecithin that is guaranteed to be non-GMO.
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AuthorRaj Murad - Director at Lecitein Limited, a company focused on supplying lecithin in all forms and variations across the globe. Archives
April 2023
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