Choline

An essential nutrient required for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, the structural phospholipid phosphatidylcholine, and the methyl donor betaine. Officially classified as an essential nutrient by NIH and EFSA, with an Adequate Intake (AI) of 550 mg/day (men) and 425 mg/day (women) per NIH. The body synthesises choline in small amounts, but dietary and supplemental intake is needed to meet most adults' requirements. Choline Bitartrate is the cost-effective salt form in the YNP catalogue; other forms include CDP-choline and alpha-GPC. Not the same as betaine (betaine is a choline metabolite/methyl donor — related but distinct compounds).