As a supplement, lecithin has been used for many ailments, including lowering cholesterol levels, treating neurological disorders and liver conditions, and more. 

When ingested, lecithin is broken down into a substance called choline, which the body uses for many vital processes including:

Transporting fats

Metabolism (breaking down food for energy)

Facilitating nerve transmissions in the brain (by making the neurotransmitter called acetylcholine)

Building the cell membrane (and facilitating the cell membrane’s function)

Mastitis is a common ailment in breastfeeding mothers. Some sources report that lecithin may help to prevent clogged ducts in the breast that often lead to mastitis

Lecithin is not a single substance, but rather, a group of chemicals belonging to compounds called phospholipids. The importance of phospholipids is that they are required by the body to build cell membranes and are vital to the normal functioning of the brain, blood, nerves and other tissues.

Lecithin is a nutrient, as well as a supplement.

Major and minor side effects of lecithin could include:

Increased salivation

Decreased appetite

Diarrhea

Nausea

Abdominal pain

Abdominal Bloating

Do consult your doctor before taking lecithin, if you have malabsorption (poor absorption of nutrients across the digestive tract into blood circulation) problems. You may develop loose motions (diarrhea) or excess fats in feces (steatorrhea).

Use of lecithin in children should strictly be under medical supervision.

Lecithin supplements are usually meant to be taken three times daily with meals.

Do consult your doctor before using lecithin, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding.