Dose Of Calcium And Vitamin D3 Tablets During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a crucial time for every woman. During this time, a woman's body undergoes several changes to accommodate the growing fetus. It is crucial to maintain proper nutrition during pregnancy to ensure the healthy growth and development of the baby. Calcium and vitamin D3 are two essential nutrients that are crucial during pregnancy. Let's take a closer look at how much calcium and vitamin D3 a pregnant woman needs and the benefits of taking supplements.
Calcium Requirements During Pregnancy
Calcium is a mineral that is essential for building strong bones and teeth. During pregnancy, calcium is essential for the development of the baby's bones and teeth. A pregnant woman needs more calcium than a non-pregnant woman to support these needs. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), pregnant women need 1,000 milligrams (mg) of calcium per day.
Calcium-rich foods include milk, cheese, yogurt, sardines, almonds, and leafy green vegetables. However, it may be challenging to get enough calcium through diet alone. In such cases, a doctor may recommend taking calcium supplements.
Vitamin D3 Requirements During Pregnancy
Vitamin D3 is essential for the absorption of calcium in the body. During pregnancy, vitamin D3 is crucial for the proper development of the baby's bones and teeth. Vitamin D3 also helps to maintain a healthy immune system and may reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia. The NIH recommends that pregnant women get 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D3 per day.
Vitamin D3 is found in only a few foods, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods like milk and cereal. The body can also produce vitamin D3 when the skin is exposed to sunlight. However, it may be challenging to get enough vitamin D3 through diet and sunlight alone. In such cases, a doctor may recommend taking vitamin D3 supplements.
Benefits of Taking Calcium and Vitamin D3 Supplements During Pregnancy
Calcium and vitamin D3 supplements are safe for pregnant women and their developing babies. In fact, taking these supplements during pregnancy can provide several benefits, including:
- Reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia
- Preventing the loss of bone density in pregnant women
- Reducing the risk of preterm birth
- Improving the baby's bone density
- Reducing the risk of rickets in the baby
It is important to note that taking too much calcium or vitamin D3 can be harmful. Always talk to a doctor before taking any supplements during pregnancy.
When to Start Taking Calcium and Vitamin D3 Supplements During Pregnancy
It is recommended to start taking calcium and vitamin D3 supplements as soon as you find out you are pregnant. These supplements should be taken throughout the pregnancy to ensure the baby's healthy growth and development.
Conclusion
Calcium and vitamin D3 are two essential nutrients that are crucial during pregnancy. Pregnant women need more calcium and vitamin D3 than non-pregnant women to support the baby's growth and development. Calcium and vitamin D3 supplements are safe and can provide several benefits, including reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia and improving the baby's bone density. Always talk to a doctor before taking any supplements during pregnancy.