The Importance Of Taking Calcium Supplements In Pregnancy

For pregnant mothers, the need for calcium is 1.5 times higher than normal to ensure the development of the fetus and for the mother. Therefore, during pregnancy, pregnant women often fall into calcium deficiency if they do not have proper nutrition. So how does calcium affect pregnant women? Let’s find out with AIH Clinic 

► Role of calcium during pregnancy 

Calcium is an important nutrient in the formation of bones, teeth and ensures the development of the fetus. For the mother, during pregnancy, the necessary amount of calcium in the body will be provided to the baby. Therefore, if not supplemented enough, mothers are prone to calcium deficiency leading to the risk of osteoporosis, later. In particular, many studies show that calcium supplements help prevent preeclampsia, premature birth and reduce the risk of pregnant women dying or experiencing serious problems related to high blood pressure during pregnancy.   

► Calcium supplements for pregnant mothers: How much is enough? 

Answering this question, Nutritionist Tran Thi Ngoc Chau – Head of Nutrition Department, American International Hospital (AIH) said: 

Before and after pregnancy, the pregnant mother’s body needs to supplement about 1200mg of calcium per day. Regular calcium accumulation is essential, it both replaces the lost calcium and creates calcium reserves when the food is not enough. In the last 3 months of pregnancy, the fetus has a high need for calcium because the baby begins to grow and increase bone density, but it is not necessary to add more than 1200 mg / day because the mother’s body will increase its ability to absorb calcium in food to meet the needs 

► Calcium-rich foods for pregnant women 

Calcium supplementation for pregnant women should be carried out throughout pregnancy. Pregnant women can get calcium from their daily meals, in the following foods: 

• Dairy foods are believed to be the largest source of calcium for mothers. Mom can add low-fat fresh milk, yogurt, cheeses to the diet. 
• Animal protein group: Copper crab, shrimp, chicken egg,… 
• Group of vegetables: amaranth, vegetables, spinach, jute, spinach, centella asiatica, magnetic potato, sweet potato,.. 
• Fruit group: Milk breast, grape, butter, banana, sapoche,… 
• Seed group: sesame seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds,… 
• Calcium supplements: In addition to eating calcium-rich foods, pregnant women can supplement calcium by taking calcium tablets. 

 Throughout pregnancy, calcium supplementation should be maintained continuously in addition to a healthy, nutritious diet. However, mothers need to refer to the calcium supplement regimen prescribed by the doctor, avoid excess calcium supplementation and ensure the best development for the fetus.  Everyone’s eating habits and preferences are different so diet and movement need to be personalized for each person, not one menu or diet that applies to all.  

The American International Clinic (AIH Clinic) nutrition department with a team of experienced dietitians will conduct an analysis of your current diet and activities to come up with a reasonable nutritional intervention plan for each individual case. 

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