Why Choline in Pregnancy Is the Missing Link to Baby’s Brain Health

For years, folic acid has been the undisputed hero of prenatal care. But quietly, another nutrient—arguably just as essential—has been overlooked. That nutrient is choline, a foundational building block for your baby’s brain, nervous system, and long-term cognitive development.

And the truth is simple:
Most women are not getting enough.
Most prenatal vitamins don’t include it or include minimal amounts
Yet the science is now undeniable. You need at least 450mg per day in pregnancy

A Brief History: The Hidden Nutrient Nobody Talked About

Although choline was first isolated in 1862, its importance wasn’t recognised until modern neuroscience began mapping how a baby’s brain forms. By the early 2000s, clinical research revealed a breakthrough:

Choline is required for neural tube closure, memory formation, gene expression, and the architecture of the developing brain.

This evidence became so compelling that in 2017, the American Medical Association recommended choline be included in all prenatal supplements.
Yet most products still omit it.

Why Choline Matters So Much in Pregnancy

Choline works across every major developmental system, but its most profound impact is on the brain:

1. Builds the baby’s memory centre (hippocampus)

Choline drives the formation of the hippocampus—responsible for learning, memory, and emotional regulation.

2. Boosts cognitive outcomes for years

Cornell University studies show infants whose mothers consumed higher choline levels in late pregnancy have better attention, processing speed, and memory well into childhood.

3. Supports placental function and reduces inflammation

Healthy choline levels are linked to improved placental transport, better nutrient delivery, and potentially lower rates of preeclampsia.

4. Regulates genetic programming

Choline fuels methylation, the process that shapes gene expression and long-term metabolic health—literally influencing how a child’s biology adapts to life.

The Science: Choline and Baby’s Brain Development

Choline is essential for producing acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for memory, learning, mood, and muscle control.

It also forms phosphatidylcholine, a key structural component of:

• cell membranes

• nerve insulation (myelin)

• the fetal brain’s rapidly expanding neural network

Extensive research—across both human and animal studies—shows that choline-rich pregnancies lead to:

• enhanced hippocampal growth

• improved neural wiring

• better attention and behavioural regulation

• potentially lower risk of conditions such as ADHD and autism-related traits

This is why many neuroscientists now consider choline one of the three most important nutrients for fetal brain development, alongside folate and DHA.

Should You Supplement With Choline?

Most women do not reach the recommended 450 mg/day, and functional medicine practitioners frequently advise 500–900 mg/day in late pregnancy for optimal brain benefits.

You may need supplementation if your diet is low in:

• eggs

• liver

• fish

• poultry

Types of supplements:

• Choline bitartrate — widely used, cost-effective

• Citicoline (CDP-choline) — supports brain phospholipid synthesis

• Alpha-GPC — highly bioavailable with strong neurological uptake

Choosing pregnancy-safe, doctor-formulated choline is key.

Top Food Sources of Choline

Include these regularly to naturally boost intake:

• Egg yolks – ~147 mg per egg

• Liver – ~356 mg per 100 g

• Salmon and cod

• Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower

• Soybeans / legumes (moderate plant-based sources)

Final Thoughts

Choline is not the “optional extra” many once assumed—it is a cornerstone of pregnancy nutrition. Its influence on memory, cognition, gene regulation, and placental health has lifelong implications for your baby’s resilience and development.

Ensuring consistent intake through food and high-quality supplements is one of the most impactful steps you can take for your baby’s future brain health.

✨ Explore our doctor-formulated choline options at www.bepurer.com

Choose our standalone Choline Capsule or the expertly designed Essence Capsule, crafted to give your baby the strongest and smartest start in life.