During pregnancy it is necessary take some essential health supplements, both for the pregnant woman and for the development of the baby. All pregnant women should take supplements of folic acid, iodine and iron, to cover the needs that are increased during this period. In addition to these, there are other essential nutrients that in some cases must be supplemented.
For example calcium, vitamins of groups A, C or D and zinc. Although in principle it is possible to obtain these nutrients through a varied and balanced diet, in some cases the contribution is insufficient. However, you should never take any supplement on your own, if you think that because of the way you eat it is possible that you have deficiencies in any of the nutrients mentioned, consult with the doctor who follows your pregnancy.
Calcium intake during pregnancy
Calcium is an essential mineral for the human bodyas it is the largest component of bones and teeth. On this substance, it depends that your bone structure remains strong and healthy throughout your life. A daily intake of calcium ensures healthy bones, capable of supporting all the hormonal and physical changes that the body undergoes throughout its maturity.
On the contrary, a deficiency of this mineral can seriously compromise the health of your bones. What can pose a serious risk of diseases such as osteoporosis. This is a chronic pathology, for which bones progressively weaken as bone mass decreases. In addition, osteoporosis mainly affects women, as a result of hormonal changes produced throughout life such as the menstruation, pregnancy or menopause.
During pregnancy, the calcium intake must be greater than usual so that the needs are covered of the mother and also of the baby. Since calcium is responsible for creating the baby's bones and teeth, this mineral should not be lacking in the pregnant woman's diet.
Is a calcium supplement necessary?
Usually, if you take the recommended amount of calcium each day, it is not necessary that you take calcium supplement. To ensure that the amount is adequate, you must remember to take at least three daily servings of milk and milk products. In addition, you can find this mineral in other foods such as broccoli, green leafy vegetables, legumes or fish such as sardines, among others.
A rich and varied diet is not the only thing necessary to maintain our health.
Only in the case of women who have calcium deficiency in their diet on a regular basis. Especially in the case of vegan pregnant women or those with poor and unhealthy diets, calcium supplementation is often recommended during pregnancy. The supplement of this substance is also recommended in women who are at risk of suffering preeclampsia.
Therefore, it is most recommended that make sure you eat correctly throughout your pregnancy. Also during the months that breastfeeding lasts, if you choose this method to feed your baby. In this case, prevention is key to avoiding future problems in your health, in addition to avoiding developmental problems in your baby.
If you have doubts as to how your diet should be in this important period of your life, en Madres Hoy you will be able to find answers to all your questions. In this link we leave you some tips on special nutrition for future mothers with gestational diabetes. In addition, we leave you this other link that includes the new guidelines on feeding of the food pyramid, created by the Spanish Society of Community Nutrition.
And remember, before any doubt or fear that may arise during your pregnancy, do not hesitate to consult with the doctor who follows your pregnancy. All the care you can take is essential. Both the way you eat and the lifestyle habits you adopt during these months are essential for your pregnancy to develop normally and your baby to grow strong and healthy.