Championing Choline - The Unsung Fertility Nutrient
With benefits like improved brain health, a supportive function in neural tube development and optimised placental function, choline is certainly the unsung fertility nutrient. Until recently, choline — a relative of the B vitamin group — has avoided attention in the world of prenatal nutrition. But emerging research has shown us choline shares many similar benefits on a developing baby to folate. And supplementation is particularly important to consider, as approximately 90–95% of pregnant women consume less choline than recommended. Most prenatal vitamins don't include nearly enough to do the job.
Top food sources of choline
Eggs — Just 2 eggs and their yolks a day meet about half a pregnant woman's daily choline needs.
Liver — Rich in almost every vitamin and mineral needed to support foetal cognitive development, including choline.
The key benefits of choline
1. Boosting baby's brain development
One of the standout benefits of choline is its positive impact on foetal brain development. Studies have shown that getting enough choline during pregnancy can enhance memory and cognitive function in the baby — giving your little one a head start from the very beginning.
2. Guarding against neural tube defects
Choline isn't just good for the brain; it's a key player in preventing neural tube defects too. Including choline in your prenatal nutrition lineup acts as an additional safeguard against potential issues with the baby's spinal cord development, ensuring a strong foundation right from the start.
3. Boosting maternal health too
While we're singing the praises of choline for the baby, let's not forget about maternal health. Choline also contributes to liver function and helps maintain a healthy metabolism — a little wellness boost for you during this delicate time.
How to get your choline fix
Now that we've established the amazing benefits of choline, you might be wondering how to incorporate it into your daily routine. Prioritise choline-rich foods like eggs and liver, and look for a prenatal vitamin that actually includes it at a meaningful dose.
While choline might not be as well-known as some other prenatal powerhouses, its benefits are undeniable. By ensuring your prenatal includes this unsung hero, you're not just supporting your baby's healthy development — you're investing in your own wellbeing too.
