Calcium is a type of mineral that helps maintain teeth and bones. For pregnant women, calcium plays a significant role in the development of the fetus and general health during pregnancy. This article explains why you should avoid calcium deficiency during pregnancy.
Benefits of calcium for pregnant women
The benefits of calcium for pregnant women include:
- The formation of fetal organs consists of the nervous system, bones, muscles and teeth
- The formation of cells that regulate the performance of the heart and blood clots in the baby’s body
- Maintaining the fitness and health of pregnant women
- Bone protection and blood clotting properties for pregnant women
- Providing a building block for the baby’s IQ
Why calcium is vital for pregnant women
Calcium is directly absorbed through the placenta by the fetus for growth and development; hence pregnant women are recommended to consume a higher calcium intake.
Fetuses rely heavily on calcium for growth. Hence it is essential to receive a generous calcium intake. A lack of calcium could cause bone health problems for both the baby and the mother.
At just 6 months, the intercellular relationships in the fetus develop. This is when the fetus begins to require more calcium. A pregnant woman’s calcium intake affects the development of the brain and intelligence of the child at birth.
What is the ideal calcium intake for pregnant women?
The calcium needs of pregnant and lactating women are 200 mg more than ordinary people. According to the 2013 Nutrition Adequacy Rate, the dosage that pregnant women should receive is as follows:
For pregnant women aged less than 30 years, the intake should be no less than 1300 mg/day.
For pregnant women over 30 years, the intake should be no less than 1200 mg/day.
Why is it different? The younger the pregnant woman is, the more calcium is needed for bone growth. Remember that your calcium intake is divided between you and your baby during pregnancy.
How to meet your calcium needs
There are two simple ways to meet your daily calcium requirements. The first is to eat calcium-rich foods, and the second is to take calcium supplements.
Some foods that are rich in calcium:
- Milk
- Yoghurt
- Cheese
- White bread
- Ice cream
- Broccoli
- Fish
- Spinach
- Tofu
- Nuts
- Avocado
Consider taking calcium supplements if you can’t consume high-calcium foods in large quantities. Consult a doctor about the appropriate daily dosage.
Consequences of calcium deficiency during pregnancy
During pregnancy, you must ensure that your calcium intake is absorbed efficiently. Some factors that inhibit absorption include excessive consumption of caffeine, lack of exercise, or the presence of harmful substances in the body.
Calcium deficiency during pregnancy can lead to the following health problems:
Toothache and bleeding gums
Pregnant women often experience canker sores, toothaches, and bleeding gums. To avoid these diseases, Mums should maintain the strength of their teeth and gum health by meeting their adequate calcium intake.
Mamas can also use toothpaste with complete calcium protection. Please ensure that the toothpaste is free of harmful substances so that it does not interfere with calcium absorption.
If you are looking for good toothpaste, consider trying out Mama’s Choice Non-Fluoride Toothpaste, specially formulated for pregnant and breastfeeding women. This natural and halal toothpaste is enriched with calcium, miswak extract, mint, allantoin, and chlorophyll.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is also known as pregnancy poisoning. This disease is a blood pressure disorder that hinders the normal functioning of organs such as the liver or kidneys.
Some symptoms include protein in the urine, bone pain, shortness of breath, and high blood pressure. In addition, preeclampsia can result in miscarriage and abnormal fetal growth due to poor blood flow to the fetus.
Bone pain
90% of the calcium in the human body is located in the bones and teeth. In the event of calcium deficiency, pregnant women will experience cramps, tense muscles and joints, and pain in areas such as the waist and pelvis. Pregnant women will also get back pain more quickly. Strengthening your bones by increasing your calcium intake will help prevent osteoporosis.
Hypertension
Hypertension that occurs during pregnancy is classified as chronic hypertension. This condition is indicated by blood pressure at or above 140/90 mm Hg and can cause fatigue, excessive headaches, miscarriage, and premature birth.
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Mama's Choice Team
