What is PEA?

PEA stands for palmitoylethanolamide and is produced by the human body itself. Chemically, PEA is a fatty acid amide, a compound of a fatty acid (palmitic acid) and an amino alcohol. Structurally, it belongs to the same family as endocannabinoids. However, PEA does not bind to the cannabinoid receptors that people associate with cannabis. It has nothing to do with THC or CBD.

Discovered in an egg yolk

PEA has a remarkable discovery history. In the 1940s, scientists investigated why children who regularly ate egg yolk seemed to suffer less often from rheumatic fever, a rare complication of a streptococcal infection. From that dietary research, they eventually isolated PEA as the active compound, first from egg yolk.

Since then, PEA has grown into a well-studied molecule with hundreds of scientific publications to its name. Researchers’ interest continued in the decades that followed, which eventually led to PEA becoming available as a dietary supplement.

PEA in food

Besides being produced in the body itself, PEA is also found in everyday foods. The highest concentrations are found in:

• Egg yolk
• Soy and soy products
• Peanuts
• Alfalfa

However, the amounts found in food are limited. The body primarily produces PEA itself, at the location where it is needed, and production varies depending on circumstances. Supplementation offers an external, standardised source of PEA.

Why liposomal?

PEA is fat-soluble, which means it dissolves poorly in the watery environment of the gastrointestinal tract. Standard PEA capsules or tablets therefore have limited bioavailability: part of the active compound never reaches the bloodstream.

In liposomal PEA, the molecule is enclosed in liposomes: microscopically small spheres made of phospholipids, the same building blocks found in your own cell membranes. This fat-like structure is exactly what a fat-soluble compound like PEA needs. The liposomes protect the compound from breakdown in the stomach and make it easier for it to pass through the intestinal wall.

The result is a higher bioavailability compared with regular PEA in capsule or tablet form.

Who is this product for?

PEA is a compound the body already knows. That can appeal to people who prefer to supplement with molecules that are close to their own biology, rather than compounds that come entirely from outside the body.

Liposomal PEA is often chosen by:

• People who already have experience with PEA and are looking for a better-absorbed form
• People interested in the body’s own molecules as a basis for supplementation
• People who pay attention to the purity and origin of their supplements
• People looking for a pure, plant-based supplement, free of animal-derived ingredients

PEA is not a medicine. It is a dietary supplement and no medical claims are made in connection with it.

Product highlights

• 180 mg PEA per 600mg capsule
• Obtained from: hexadecanoyl chloride
• Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
• Free from: gluten, lactose, soy, GMOs, artificial colours, and preservatives

Important to note

This product is a dietary supplement. The information on this page is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor or pharmacist if you are taking medication or have questions about the use of this supplement.

Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice. Keep out of reach of young children. A dietary supplement is not a substitute for a varied diet. A varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are important.

Do you have questions about this product or would you like personal advice? Call us on (+31) 070-345-0290 or email info@kalahealth.eu.