Choline Supplementation in Pregnancy

Fetal and Offspring Benefits

Emerging evidence suggests choline may help prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) in folate-fortified populations, particularly in cases that may be folate-resistant, according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, 2
In populations with adequate folate intake, lower choline levels were associated with higher NTD risk, suggesting choline may provide additional protection beyond folic acid alone, as recommended by the USDA and FDA 1

Choline supplementation appears safe during pregnancy, with the upper tolerable limit set at 3.5 g/day for adults, as stated by the Clinical Nutrition guidelines 3
Acute high-dose ingestion may cause hypotension or a fishy body odor, but these effects are rare at recommended doses, according to the Clinical Nutrition guidelines 3