Therapy in a Nutshell Is Choline the Missing Link in Anxiety? Let’s Look at the Data
8 snips
Jan 8, 2026 Recent research reveals a link between lower choline levels in the brain and anxiety disorders. The discussion delves into what choline is and its crucial role in producing acetylcholine, which helps with calmness and regulation. Emma explores whether low choline levels cause anxiety or are a result of it, emphasizing the complexities. She also reviews evidence on choline supplementation and offers practical dietary recommendations, suggesting sources like eggs and salmon. The conversation highlights the importance of supporting mental health through diet and proven anxiety management tools.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Anxiety Linked To Lower Brain Choline
- A Nature Molecular Psychiatry meta-analysis found people with anxiety had on average 8% less brain choline than those without anxiety disorders.
- This is the first meta-analysis showing a consistent chemical pattern linked to anxiety, suggesting biological nutrient differences matter.
Host Shares Personal Anxiety Experience
- Emma McAdam shares she often experiences more anxiety than she'd prefer and works hard to manage it.
- She frames anxiety as a nervous-system state, not just a mindset issue requiring physical nutrients.
Measured Choline With H-MRS MRI
- The researchers used H-MRS (magnetic resonance spectroscopy) to measure brain chemistry noninvasively via MRI scans.
- They checked multiple brain chemicals and only choline showed a significant difference between anxious and control groups.