Certain nutrients are essential to the health and well-being of your growing child. Here’s what to keep in mind when it comes to choline.
Choline is an important nutrient similar to the B vitamins and often grouped with them as part of the vitamin B complex. Because the body may not produce enough choline on its own, it’s important to consume choline-rich foods.
Choline helps brain cells function, and it is important for overall brain development and activity. The nutrient is also important for cell membrane structure. In the womb, babies obtain choline from their mothers, allowing for healthy development before birth.
Choline is especially high in milk, liver, eggs, and peanuts. It’s also found in poultry, fish, and grains. Breast milk supplies choline; infant formula also has it.
| Age | Amount/day |
|---|---|
| 0-6 months | 125 mg |
| 7-12 months | 150 mg |
| 1-3 years | 200 mg |
| 4-5 years | 250 mg |
Like folic acid, choline may be important for neural tube development that occurs early on in a pregnancy. Vegans who consume no milk or eggs may be at risk for choline deficiency, because it comes mainly from animal products.
As with most things, practice makes perfect—and rest assured, you’ll get plenty of diaper-changing practice those first couple of years. In no time you’ll be a pro and be able to tackle your baby’s diaper with confidence. For more tips and resources on all things baby, including nutrition and feeding, be sure to join Enfamil Family Beginnings®. Enjoy up to $400 in savings, plus exclusive rewards, support, and surprises.
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