Choline

A newly discovered nutrient that is vital for foetal development.


Choline NRV:

The NRV of Choline has not been established by the EU, Her.9 contains 55mg, due to the overwhelming evidence of benefits in relation to pregnancy. (55 mg of Choline amounts to 200g of Quinoa)


Major functions:

Choline’s role in the body is complex and has wide-ranging roles with in the body such as:

  • Neurotransmitter synthesis
  • Cell-membrane signalling 
  • Lipid transport 

    Benefits:

    Choline, a vitamin-like substance, poses numerous benefits for human health, particularly during pregnancy.


    During pregnancy the body’s need for choline nearly doubles, with maternal supplies being actively transported to the foetus. Choline intake during this key period has been shown to have lifelong benefits for a child’s future learning, memory, and attention span. It is also essential for the development and function of the baby's brain and spinal cord.


    Choline demand also increases during breastfeeding, making supplementation essential once the baby has been born. The choline transferred to the infant through breastmilk is important for proper cognitive and neural development.

    Food Sources:

    • Fish
    • Dairy
    • Nuts
    • Seeds

       

      References:
      • Zeisel, S.H. and da Costa, K.-A. (2009). Choline: an essential nutrient for public health. Nutrition Reviews, 67(11), pp.615–623.
      • Derbyshire, E. and Obeid, R. (2020). Choline, Neurological Development and Brain Function: A Systematic Review Focusing on the First 1000 Days. Nutrients, 12(6), p.1731.