Could a simple nutrient shield babies from Alcohol's harm in the womb?

NCT ID NCT04395196

First seen Jul 09, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether giving choline supplements to pregnant women who drink heavily can reduce the negative effects of alcohol on their baby's growth and brain development. Choline is an essential nutrient that supports cell membranes and brain function. The trial compares daily choline supplements to a placebo in 288 pregnant women in South Africa, measuring the babies' memory, weight, and head circumference after birth.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
choline bitartrate
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simple, low-cost way to protect babies from some of the lasting effects of alcohol exposure during pregnancy.
What could go wrong
This is a mid-stage trial, so results are not yet proven. The supplement may not work as well in all women, and high doses could cause side effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences

    RECRUITING

    Cape Town, Western Cape, 7925, South Africa

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.