In a study with mice, the pain relief provided by this nutrient rivaled that of opioids but without the negative effects. Yet it’s extremely difficult to get enough of it from food unless you eat this one item just about every day—which is why an estimated 90 percent of the U.S. population is deficient.
Story at a Glance
Boosting choline, a precursor for acetylcholine, may be an important part of pain relief, but an estimated 90 percent of the U.S. population is deficient.
Researchers from the University of Chicago revealed that targeting an acetylcholine receptor led to pain-relieving effects in mice, even in animals that were tolerant to opioids.
The pathway did not activate the brain’s reward system, so there’s little chance of addiction, and there was no tolerance built up or withdrawal symptoms when the treatment stopped.
Choline plays a significant role in human health, from neurotransmitter synthesis to cell structures, and may be involved in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), atherosclerosis, and neurological disorders.
Krill oil and eggs, particularly the yolks, are excellent choline sources.