Here’s why pregnant women need to include calcium in their diet

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Here’s why pregnant women need to include calcium in their diet

Calcium is considered to be one of the most vital nutrients and hence is highly essential, especially for pregnant women. Calcium is essential for both mother & baby. 

Also it helps in the reduction of preeclampsia and hypertension. 

Calcium is a nutrient that helps in strengthening the developing bones and teeth of the baby and highly contributes to the development of muscles, nerves, and the heart. It also helps in developing blood-clotting abilities and a normal heart rhythm. 

Non-intake of sufficient calcium can also lead to low birth weight, premature birth, leg and muscle cramps, numbness and tingling in the fingers, high blood pressure during pregnancy, increased risk of bone fractures, slow growth of the baby, heart problems, and many more. Hence, it is extremely important to ensure that an adequate amount of calcium is included in the diet to avoid complications. 

Pregnant women are mostly advised to take an intake of 1,000 milligrams of calcium which loosely translates into four servings of calcium-rich foods. One can also take calcium supplements but in a limited quantity to avoid side effects like constipation and gas. 

Here are a few food items that have high calcium content that can be included in your diet. 

  • Milk and bi-products such as yogurt and cheese.
  • Kale, Bok Choy, broccoli, and other greens. 
  • Soybeans and baked beans. 
  • Almonds and salmon. 

All pregnant women are advised to have a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to ensure good health of them as well as the baby. Make sure that your next meal has enough calcium content!