Choline for pregnancy
Choline is an essential nutrient that is the building block for acetylcholine (needed in the brain). It also plays a crucial role in the development of your baby’s brain, particularly in the third trimester.
How much choline is required for pregnancy?
Expectant mothers should get 450mg of choline each day.
Foods high in choline include egg yolks, red meat, fish, poultry, legumes, nuts, and cruciferous vegetables.
Choline for breastfeeding
Not many people consider the nutrition required for breastfeeding, but it is so important so that you don’t deplete yourself while feeding your baby. Nursing your baby requires even more choline than when you’re pregnant!
Breastfeeding mums need 550mg of choline a day.
Benefits of choline during pregnancy
Research has found that pregnant women who get twice the amount of recommended choline in their last trimester have positive cognitive effects on their babies. Most women consume much less than the recommended 450mg.