Abstract
The demand for choline increases during pregnancy and lactation, similarly as other essential nutrients. Choline is supposed to be important for the neurological development of the fetus and newborn.
Choline is a water-soluble substance necessary for methyl group metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, structural integrity and signaling functions of cell membranes. As a precursor of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, it can affect cognitive function and brain development.
A direct relationship between cognitive function in children and fetal choline levels has been demonstrated in animal studies, but is not sufficiently demonstrated in humans. Hyperhomocysteinemia has been implicated in the development of cardiovascular disease.
Choline is thought to lower homocysteine levels and positively affecting the cardiovascular system. All this information leads to an increased interest in obtaining sufficient evidence of the importance of choline intake in the diet and its possible supplementation.
Sufficient levels of cholin may play a key role in the development of the CNS in pregnancy.