Nutrition for Brain Development in Babies: A Pregnancy Guide

Pregnancy diets rich in folic acid, Omega-3 fatty acids, and choline are important for healthy fetal brain development for a brainy baby. Nutrients like these can also help prevent spina bifida and neural tube defects, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Nutrients for Baby's Brain

• According to the CDC, pregnant women should take folic acid every day. Folic acid helps brain development and can help prevent brain related birth defects. Additionally, Womenshealth.gov reports that Omega-3 fatty acids consumed by pregnant women may aid in babies' brain development. According to Pregnancy Today, a pregnant woman should also be sure to include choline in her diet for fetal brain development.

Foods for Nutrients

• According to the CDC, folate (folic acid found in food) can be found in leafy, dark green vegetables, citrus fruits and beans. For Omega-3 fatty acids, pregnant women should eat a variety of seafood, avoiding fish high in mercury, per Womenshealth.gov. Pregnancy Today reports that choline can be found in eggs, meat, soybeans and wheat germ.

Other Considerations

• What a mother doesn't eat is just as important as what she eats. According to Womenshealth.gov, a pregnant woman should avoid alcohol, drugs and toxins to help her baby be brainy.