Choline

Choline is an essential nutrient that plays a fundamental role in the synthesis of phospholipid membranes that cover cells, acts as a source of methyl groups essential for various processes of hepatic metabolism and is the precursor of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for brain function.

Quick facts

  • La ingesta adecuada de colina es de 425 mg al día para mujeres no embarazadas, 450 mg durante la gestación y 550 mg en la lactancia
  • La deficiencia de colina ha sido asociada con el parto prematuro y el bajo peso al nacer

WHAT IS HILL FOR?

During pregnancy, its importance is amplified, as it contributes to the brain development of the fetus, to the integrity of the placenta, contributing to the transport of nutrients from the mother's body to the fetus, and the synthesis of acetylcholine, essential for memory and learning. Specifically:

  • Closure of the neural tube:Adequate intake reduces the risk of defects such as spina bifida, with studies indicating up to 2.4 times greater risk in cases of deficiency.
  • Brain development:It promotes proliferation, neuronal differentiation and the formation of synaptic connections.
  • Nervous system:It modulates its developmental function, avoiding structural and functional alterations in the baby's brain.
  • Risk of preeclampsia:Low choline intake may affect the vascular development of the placenta, increasing the risk of this pregnancy complication.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Despite its relevance, many pregnant women do not reach the recommended intake of 450 mg/day, highlighting the need for a choline-rich diet and possible supplementation.

In Europe, women of childbearing age consume between 291 and 374 mg of choline per day, while in the US the figures are even lower.

During pregnancy, intake is often insufficient, with an estimated average of 190 to 383 mg per day, below nutritional recommendations.

Clinical Studies

Choline and neuronal development

Low maternal choline intake increases the risk of neural tube defects and impairs neuronal development. Adequate intake is associated with improved childhood neurocognition, highlighting its importance during pregnancy.

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Obeid R, Derbyshire E, Schön C. Association between Maternal Choline, Fetal Brain Development, and Child Neurocognition: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Human Studies. Adv Nutr, 2022.

Choline and its effect on children

This study investigated the effects of maternal choline supplementation during pregnancy on offspring mental health. The findings suggest that choline may improve children's neurological and cognitive development, reducing the risk of psychiatric disorders and promoting better mental health in childhood.

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Spoelstra SK, Eijsink JJH, Hoenders HJR, Knegtering H. Maternal choline supplementation during pregnancy to promote mental health in offspring. Early Intervention Psychiatry. 2023;17(7):643-651

Choline in pregnancy

Choline supplementation in pregnancy is essential for fetal brain development, neural tube closure, and maternal health, improving long-term outcomes for the baby.

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Jaiswal A, Dewani D, Reddy LS, Patel ACholine Supplementation in Pregnancy: Current Evidence and Implications.Cureus, 2023.