Pregnancy is an important phase of every woman’s life. During this period, many physical and hormonal changes take place in the mother’s body, hence it is considered important to take special care of her diet. A balanced diet not only helps in maintaining the health of a pregnant woman, but also plays an important role in the normal development of the child in the womb. For this reason, doctors recommend taking a diet rich in essential nutrients during pregnancy.
calcium It is one such essential mineral, which is necessary for keeping bones and teeth strong as well as for normal functioning of muscles, nerves and heart. Due to calcium deficiency during pregnancy, the mother’s bones can become weak and in some cases the risk of health risks can also increase. Therefore, it is considered important to take adequate amount of this nutrient. Let us know why the need of calcium increases during pregnancy, what should be eaten to fulfill it and what things should be kept in mind while taking supplements.
Why does the need for calcium increase during pregnancy?
World Health Organization (WHO) According to, during pregnancy, calcium is an essential nutrient for both the mother and the baby in the womb. It plays an important role in the normal development of baby’s bones and teeth. If a pregnant woman does not get enough calcium from food, the body can use the calcium present in the mother’s bones to meet the baby’s needs.
WHO also states that in areas where the amount of calcium in women’s diet is low, calcium supplements can be given during pregnancy on the advice of a doctor. This may also help reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication related to high blood pressure. Therefore, it is considered important to take adequate amount of calcium during pregnancy and follow diet or supplements as per the doctor’s advice.
What to eat to fulfill calcium requirements during pregnancy?
To fulfill the calcium requirement, milk, curd, cheese and other dairy products can be included in the diet. Apart from this, things made from ragi, sesame, soya, tofu, almonds, green leafy vegetables like spinach but in balanced quantity and fortified food items are also considered good sources of calcium.
By taking a balanced diet, the body also gets other essential nutrients along with calcium. If the needs are not being met by food alone, then supplements can be taken as per the doctor’s advice.
What things should be kept in mind while taking calcium supplements?
Always take calcium supplements as per doctor’s advice. Avoid taking supplements more than the prescribed quantity. If both iron and calcium supplements are to be taken, then take them at the interval prescribed by the doctor instead of taking them together, because the absorption of both can be affected.
Drink enough water along with supplements and discuss your nutritional needs with your doctor during regular checkups. It is considered more appropriate to consume supplements along with a balanced diet.
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