Oral consumption of lecithin : enhancement of memory and learning in man
Date
1981
Authors
Clark, Wayne Marston
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Abstract
Lecithin has been proposed as a possible cholinergic agonist and as such may be useful as a mechanism to improve memory and learning. This study looked at lecithin's effect on memory in two separate experiments, one using a single large dose of lecithin and the other usin a week long period of lecithin consumption. Thirty university students participated in each study. They were randomly assigned to one of three groups: one group received lecithin the first week (either for the entire week or a single large dose) and a placebo the next, one group that reversed this order, and a control group that received placebo both weeks. The subject's memory was measured by five memory and learning tests. A difference score was computed for each subject by comparing his/her scores on the two testing sessions. The average difference score was computed for each subject by comparing his/her scores on the two testing sessions. The average difference scores for each group of the treatment groups were when compares to the control group. In neither study did lecithin produce a significant effect on memory. The extraneous variables that may have produced this null effect are discussed. In general, this study does not support the previous suggestions in the literature that state that oral administration of lecithin may improve memory and learning.