It is believed by many women that proper pregnancy nutrition should include numerous calcium supplements. The March of Dimes reports, however, that a woman's calcium supply is fairly consistent throughout her adult life.

Calcium supplements are important, though. Truth be told, too many women do not get the recommended daily values before pregnancy. Only when a proper pregnancy nutrition plan is investigated do they realize the problems with their typical diet.

The recommended amount of calcium for a woman aged 19-50 is about 1,000 milligrams daily. In reality, most are only getting about 700 milligrams. As a part of pregnancy nutrition, the proper amount is even more important because the baby needs some of those 1,000mg. If the body cannot get what it needs from the food supply (including calcium supplements), then it starts "borrowing" it from other places, such as the mother’s bones.

Calcium from Natural Sources

While calcium supplements are an important element in pregnancy nutrition, they should not be the only source of calcium. In addition to taking supplements, pregnant and breastfeeding women should make sure they are consuming other natural sources of calcium. For those who eat dairy products, these can be a great source. Leafy green vegetables are another natural solution. Some foods and drinks, like orange juice, are now supplemented with calcium.

How to Add the Right Calcium Supplements

Inadequate calcium intake is often caused by women who think they are consuming enough in their daily vitamins. Unfortunately, the levels in store-bought daily vitamins are not anywhere close to suggested daily values. Additionally, problems with calcium absorption in the body may arise. It is important to your pregnancy nutrition that you choose calcium supplements that the body recognizes and absorbs easily. Whole food calcium supplements are the best bet. It's best to look for whole food calcium supplements.

Other tips for getting the most from your calcium supplements include taking them at mealtime and avoiding those that contain bone meal. According to the March of Dimes, those that include bone meal may also include several toxic substances that certainly should not be eaten, especially as part of pregnancy nutrition. As for taking it at meal times, this both helps you to remember to take the supplement and helps the body absorb it properly

When Adding Calcium Supplements to Pregnancy Nutrition Plans, Be Aware

Calcium can only be absorbed at the rate of about 60% of the daily intake in one sitting. This means that it is necessary to take the calcium supplements at least twice a day. for perfect pregnancy nutrition.