The Role of Choline Postpartum

Choline is one of those micronutrients that doesn’t get enough attention.

During pregnancy, choline supports the growth and development of your baby’s brain and spinal cord, reduces the risk of neural tube defects, and plays a fundamental role in cell division and gene expression.

In the postpartum period, we know adequate levels of choline improve a mother’s immune response. Choline is also present in large amounts in breastmilk to support baby’s growth. 
Babies are born with three times the amount of choline in their blood compared to their mother’s blood levels, so we know pregnant and new mothers have a greater need for it to rebuild and maintain their body’s stores of this essential nutrient. 

WHERE TO FIND IT
Choline can be found in animal and plant sources. Animal sources tend to have higher choline content than plants. Beef liver (3 oz) contains 356 mg, 1 large egg has 147 mg, and salmon (3 oz) has 75 mg. Plant sources like shiitake mushrooms (½ cup) offer 58 mg, quinoa (1 cup) has 43 mg, and broccoli and brussels sprouts (1 cup) each have 63 mg. 

Although your body produces some choline, it doesn’t make enough to meet your daily needs. Supplementing with food is important to maintain adequate levels

HOW MUCH DO YOU NEED?
The recommended daily intake (RDI) for pregnant women is 450 mg per day while breastfeeding mamas need 550 mg. 

New Mama contains 250 mg of choline, so make sure to consume it with a mix of choline-rich foods throughout the day to help you reach the RDI.