A fascinating study featured in Life Extension could be very important to expecting mothers. Researchers at Cornell University wanted to see the effects of increased levels of choline on the babies of expectant mothers. Although there needs to be more research conducted, their research indicates that the “maternal intake of the nutrient choline could decrease their children’s chances of developing hypertension and diabetes later in life.”
The study was performed with women in their third trimester of pregnancy, who were given twice the recommended amount of choline, and measured against a control group who received the recommended amount. What they found was that the higher amounts of choline suppressed the cortisol levels, and therefore helped the baby fight off stress in the body. This, they reported, could have a direct link to lower chances of the hypertension and diabetes, as well as a host of other positive health benefits. The best source of choline is through a healthy diet, as many pre-natal vitamins don’t include it. Our top five foods you can eat to increase your choline levels are:
- Egg Yolks
- Lean Beef
- Chicken
- Milk
- Legumes
Interested in reading more? Check out our Top Five Nutrients For A Healthy Brain
