Nutrients, how much more and why do you need and where to get them?

Choline- The demand of choline in pregnancy increases by 10% compared to a non-pregnant woman.

Why does a pregnant lady need Choline?

Choline is crucial to the pregnant woman for:

  • proper brain development and formation of neural connections in the baby. Inadequate intake of choline may lead to neural defects and behavioral problems. 
  • production of stress hormones and the brain's own stress-response systems, inadequate intake may lead to the child developing stress-related disorders regarding anxiety and attention problems. 
  • proper liver function of the mother- an inadequate intake of choline may lead to liver dysfunction in the mother.

So, in what foods is Choline found?

  • Meat
  • Fish 
  • Poultry 
  • Dairy 
  • Eggs                                                     
  • Salmon  
  • Cod 
  • Chicken breast 
  • Legumes