Study on prenatal supplement linked to higher IQ scores in children

(CBS, KYMA) - Health experts are casting doubt on new research linking a certain prenatal supplement during pregnancy with higher IQ scores in children.

The study in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology involved just over 200 pregnant women.

Some were given high-dose supplements of choline, which is an essential nutrient that help supports brain development. The others received a placebo.

At age four, the kids who were in the choline group scored eight points higher on IQ tests than the placebo group, but health experts said that does not mean pregnant women should start taking choline supplements.

Health experts say most women get the recommended amount of choline from their food, including eggs, fish, poultry, soybeans and certain vegetables.

So unless you have a restricted diet, most women are not going to need a choline supplement.