Choline is a nutrient proven to have a lasting link to a baby’s brain development when taken in pregnancy, but many prenatal vitamins don’t have much choline. The recommended amount is 450 mg/day, and studies show only 10 percent of all pregnant women get enough.

 

A recent study at Cornell University looked at the benefits of doubling the recommended choline consumption. It showed a link between sustained attention in 7-year-olds and 930 mg of choline during pregnancy. There is also some research backing the possible benefits of giving choline supplements to breastfeeding mothers and toddlers. Host Jessica Rolph is honored to be joined by study authors Dr. Barbara Strupp and Dr. Richard Canfield.

 

Key Takeaways:

[1:58] What did Dr. Strupp and Dr. Canfield’s human study discover?

[5:44] Choline has been proven (in animal studies) to improve not only attention but also some other benefits.

[9:30] What should pregnant women be doing with this information? 

[12:06] Dr. Canfield talks about the different ways to get adequate levels of choline as a pregnant woman.

[13:45] Is there any indication that supplementing to the adequate intake, or even above that amount, is helpful for breastfeeding moms? 

[16:00] Dr. Strupp talks about indications that supplementing during childhood can make a difference in future brain health.

[17:59] How do Dr. Canfield and Dr. Strupp approach choline consumption in their adult lives?

[20:48] Jessica shares the highlights of her conversation with the Cornell researchers.

 

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