Pregnant women who eat up to nine eggs a day have babies with higher IQs, new research suggests.
Eggs contain high amounts of choline, which boosts infants’ memories and abilities to process information.
However, nine is an unusually high number to eat in a day and they are linked to high cholesterol which can be deadly.
Recommendations advise 480mg of the nutrient a day in expectant mothers, however, the study suggests nearly double that amount is required for optimal results.
Yet, the researchers warn many pregnant women fail to even consume the recommended choline intake, which may be due to eggs’ reputation for causing raised cholesterol levels, as well as warnings against expectant mothers eating them if undercooked.
On average, one egg yolk contains around 115mg of choline. Other sources include red meat, fish, poultry, legumes and nuts.
Pregnant women who eat up to nine eggs a day have babies with higher IQs, research suggests
Feeding babies eggs boosts their brain development and function, research suggested last month.
Just one egg a day for six months significantly increases youngsters’ levels of the nutrients choline and DHA, both of which are involved in brain health, a study found.
Previous research reveals feeding babies eggs improves their growth and prevents stunting.
Lead author Lora Iannotti from the Brown School at Washington University, said: ‘Like milk or seeds, eggs are designed to support the early growth and development of an organism and are, therefore, dense in nutrient content.
‘Eggs provide essential fatty acids, proteins, choline, vitamins A and B12, selenium, and other critical nutrients at levels above or comparable to those found in other animal food products, but they are relatively more affordable.’
