Necessity of calcium supplementation during pregnancy
The calcium required for fetal bone formation during pregnancy comes entirely from the mother, and the amount of calcium consumed by expectant mothers is far more than that of ordinary people. It is not enough to rely solely on calcium in the diet. Insufficient calcium intake during pregnancy may lead to calf cramps, hand and foot convulsions, and even osteoporosis and osteomalacia. Therefore, expectant mothers need extra calcium supplements during pregnancy.
The best time to supplement calcium
Ideally, calcium supplementation should start when preparing for pregnancy. Calcium supplementation should be started before 20 weeks of pregnancy at the latest, because this stage is a critical period for fetal bone development. About 800 mg of calcium is needed every day. In addition to calcium in food, 200-300mg should be added.
How to choose and take calcium?
After knowing the correct knowledge of calcium supplementation, pregnant women can buy calcium supplementation drugs or health products from regular manufacturers in pharmacies, but pay attention to the dosage and types of calcium. The dosage of calcium taken each time should not be too large. It is recommended to take 600-800 mg of calcium in 2-3 times, and try not to exceed 500 mg each time.
Harm of excessive calcium supplementation
Excessive calcium supplementation may lead to hypercalcemia and kidney calculi. Therefore, attention should be paid to the intake of vitamin D when supplementing calcium to avoid excessive poisoning.
Foods rich in calcium
Milk, cheese, eggs, bean products, kelp, seaweed, shrimp skin, sesame, hawthorn, marine fish and vegetables are all foods rich in calcium. Pregnant women can take calcium through food, but they should pay attention to the low calcium content in food and need extra calcium supplement.