Nutrient

Choline

Emerging research

An essential nutrient related to the B vitamins, used in liver function, brain signaling, and cell membranes. Eggs, liver, fish, and soy are notable sources.

Commonly noted

Commonly noted: Choline is an essential nutrient, related to the B vitamins, that the body uses in liver function, brain and nerve signaling, and building cell membranes; the body makes some, but most people also get it from food such as eggs, meat, fish, and soy.
Low intake: Low choline intake is commonly discussed in relation to fatigue and, in some reports, fatty changes in the liver, though the body makes part of what it uses.
Higher intake: Very high choline from supplements is commonly discussed in relation to sweating, a fishy body odor, and digestive upset; the commonly cited upper intake level for adults is 3,500 mg a day.

Source: NIH ODS

Reference intakes

General reference figures for a typical adult — not a personal target or a claim of need.