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Calcium for pregnant women plays an important role in maintaining the health of pregnant women and their little ones in the womb. This mineral can not only form and strengthen bones and teeth, but can also prevent various pregnancy complications. Well, because the body cannot produce calcium on its own, pregnant women need to meet their calcium needs every day.

Nutritional needs of a pregnant woman will increase, unlike before pregnancy, here. This happens because the nutrition obtained by pregnant women will also be given to the fetus in the womb for optimal growth and development.

Well, like most other nutrients, calcium requirements for pregnant women also increase compared to before pregnancy, you know. Every day, pregnant and breastfeeding women need around 1,400 milligrams of calcium. This calcium intake can be obtained from various types of food and supplements. 

The Role of Calcium for Pregnant Women

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. This mineral is generally stored in bone tissue and functions to form the strength of bones and teeth. However, the role of calcium is also needed to improve blood flow, release hormones, and muscle movement, you know. 

Not only that, there are still many benefits of calcium for pregnant women that are important to pay attention to, namely:

1. Maintains the strength of pregnant women's bones and joints

During pregnancy, the pregnant woman's body will absorb some calcium from the bones to be given to the fetus. The goal is to support the formation of bones, teeth and various organs of the fetus's body. So, when pregnant women lack calcium intake, this can risk causing bones to become porous more easily.

2. Forms fetal bone, teeth and joint tissue

Calcium is a mineral that plays a very important role in the formation of fetal bones, teeth and joints. With adequate calcium intake, the fetus can grow and develop optimally and avoid various health problems, including stunting. 

3. Supports the formation and development of fetal body organs

Not only is it important for bone and tooth tissue, this mineral also plays a role in the development of the fetus' heart, nerves and muscles. With adequate calcium intake during pregnancy, the fetus can be protected from various congenital diseases.

4. Prevent gestational diabetes

Research shows that a lack of calcium intake can increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes. This is thought to occur because a lack of calcium intake during pregnancy can disrupt metabolic processes and the performance of the insulin hormone, making blood sugar levels more difficult to control in pregnant women.

Therefore, to prevent this, pregnant women need to have sufficient calcium intake every day and limit consumption of foods and drinks that are too sweet. 

5. Prevent preeclampsia

Calcium deficiency is known to put pregnant women at greater risk of developing high blood pressure. If not controlled, this high blood pressure can risk developing into dangerous pregnancy complications, namely preeclampsia. 

Well, one of the roles of calcium during pregnancy is to prevent preeclampsia. That way, the condition of the pregnant woman and her fetus can remain healthy until the time of delivery arrives.

6. Reduces the risk of preterm labor

Various studies have shown that nutritional deficiencies, including calcium, during pregnancy can put pregnant women at greater risk of premature labor. Not only that, a lack of protein, fat, carbohydrates, folate and minerals, including calcium, can also risk causing babies to be born underweight.

Therefore, to ensure that the fetus can grow and develop smoothly, pregnant women need to have adequate nutritional intake, including calcium for pregnant women. 

Sources of Calcium for Pregnant Women

Given that calcium for pregnant women is so important for the health of pregnant women and their fetuses, it is appropriate to fulfill this nutritional intake every day. Well, one source of calcium that pregnant women often rely on is milk, for example pregnant women's milk. 

However, not only from milk, pregnant women can also obtain calcium from the following various foods: 

• Yoghurt
• Cheese
• Fish, such as anchovies and sardines
• Nuts, such as almonds
• Tofu and tempeh
• Green vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli

Pregnant women can obtain various sources of calcium easily. So, to avoid getting bored or nauseous, pregnant women can consume the above sources alternately or as snacks. If you find it difficult to get enough calcium from food alone, for example due to nausea and vomiting, pregnant women can get enough calcium from supplements. 

However, consult a doctor before taking this supplement so that the doctor can determine the type and dose of calcium supplement that is suitable for pregnant women. 

If you still have further questions or want to confirm whether you need to take calcium supplements for pregnant women or other nutrients, pregnant women can consult with an obstetrician via chat.

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