Calcium for pregnant women: for the health of teeth and bones

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Calcium for pregnant women: for the health of teeth and bones

I. The value of calcium during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a unique period in a woman’s life, requiring increased attention to health and nutrition. Calcium, being one of the most important minerals, plays a key role both in the formation of a healthy fetus and in maintaining the health of the mother. The lack of calcium during pregnancy can lead to serious consequences for both the child and the future mother.

A. The role of calcium in the formation of the skeleton and teeth of the fetus

Calcium is the main building material for bones and teeth. During the period of intrauterine development, the fetus actively uses calcium coming from the mother’s body to form its skeleton, which is becoming more strong and durable as it grows. The correct formation of a skeleton is critical for the further development of the child, his motor activity and general health.

The teeth begin to form even before birth, and calcium plays an important role in this process. A sufficient amount of calcium in the mother’s body provides the correct formation of dental enamel in a child, which reduces the risk of caries in the future.

If the mother does not receive enough calcium with food, the body automatically begins to extract it from the mother’s bones to meet the needs of the fetus. This can lead to a weakening of bone tissue in the mother, increasing the risk of osteoporosis in the future.

B. Calcium participation in other physiological processes

In addition to the formation of a skeleton and teeth, calcium is involved in many other important physiological processes, both in the mother and the fetus. These include:

  • Muscle contraction: Calcium is necessary for normal muscle contraction, including uterine muscles during childbirth. The lack of calcium can lead to convulsions and muscle spasms.

  • Transfer of nerve impulses: Calcium plays a key role in the transmission of nerve impulses, ensuring the normal functioning of the nervous system.

  • Blood coagulation: Calcium is necessary for normal blood coagulation, which is especially important during childbirth to prevent excessive blood loss.

  • Maintaining normal heart rhythm: Calcium helps regulate the heart rhythm and maintain normal blood pressure.

  • Hormonal balance regulation: Calcium is involved in the regulation of the secretion of hormones, such as insulin and thyroid hormones.

C. The consequences of calcium deficiency for the mother and child

Calcium deficiency during pregnancy can have serious consequences for both the mother and the child.

The consequences for the mother:

  • Osteoporosis: A long -term calcium deficiency can lead to a weakening of bone tissue and the development of osteoporosis, increasing the risk of fractures.

  • Tooth problems: The mother’s body can extract calcium from the teeth to meet the needs of the fetus, which can lead to the development of caries and other dental problems.

  • Cramps and muscle cramps: Calcium deficiency can cause convulsions and muscle cramps, especially in the legs.

  • Increased blood pressure: Calcium deficiency can help increase blood pressure.

  • Precomports: In some cases, calcium deficiency can increase the risk of preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy, characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine.

Consequences for the child:

  • Development of development: The lack of calcium can lead to a delay in the growth and development of the fetus.

  • Rakhite: Insufficient consumption of calcium by the mother can increase the risk of rickets in the child after birth, a disease characterized by weakening of bones.

  • TF Problems: Calcium deficiency during pregnancy can negatively affect the formation of dental enamel in a child, increasing the risk of caries in the future.

  • Increased risk of fractures: The insufficient calcium content in the bones of the fetus can increase the risk of fractures after birth.

II. Recommended dose of calcium for pregnant women

The recommended daily dose of calcium for pregnant women depends on age and other factors. In general, pregnant women are recommended to consume more calcium than non -pregnant.

A. Various recommendations depending on age

  • Pregnant women aged 19-50 years: It is recommended to consume 1000 mg of calcium per day.

  • Pregnant women aged 14-18 years: It is recommended to consume 1300 mg of calcium per day.

These recommendations are based on the needs of the growing fetus and maintaining the health of the mother’s bones.

B. Factors affecting the need for calcium

Some factors may affect the need for calcium during pregnancy:

  • Multiple pregnancy: Women, pregnant with twins or triple, may need more calcium.

  • Vegetarian or vegan diet: Women who adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet may experience difficulties in obtaining a sufficient amount of calcium from food and may need in addition.

  • Lactose intolerance: Women with intolerance to lactose may experience difficulties with the use of dairy products, which are the main source of calcium.

  • Certain diseases: Some diseases, such as kidney diseases, can affect the absorption of calcium.

In such cases, it is necessary to consult a doctor to determine the optimal dose of calcium.

C. How to calculate sufficient calcium consumption

It is possible to assess the sufficiency of calcium consumption by tracking food sources in the diet. It is important to know the content of calcium in various foods.

III. Sources of calcium in nutrition

Calcium can be obtained from various foods. It is important to include in the diet products rich in calcium to ensure sufficient consumption of this mineral during pregnancy.

A. Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)

Dairy products are one of the best sources of calcium.

  • Milk: One cup (240 ml) of milk contains about 300 mg of calcium.

  • Yogurt: One cup (240 ml) of yogurt contains about 400 mg of calcium.

  • SHE: The amount of calcium in the cheese varies depending on the variety. For example, 30 g of Chedder cheese contain about 200 mg of calcium.

Dairy products also contain vitamin D, which is necessary for the absorption of calcium.

B. Green sheet vegetables (cabbage, spinach, broccoli)

Green sheet vegetables are also a good source of calcium, although it is absorbed from them worse than from dairy products.

  • Cabbage: One cup (85 g) of boiled cabbage contains about 90 mg of calcium.

  • Spinach: One cup (30 g) of raw spinach contains about 30 mg of calcium.

  • Broccoli: One cup (90 g) of boiled broccoli contains about 60 mg of calcium.

C. enriched products (juices, cereals, vegetable milk)

Some products are enriched with calcium, which makes them a good source of this mineral.

  • Enriched orange juice: One cup (240 ml) of enriched orange juice contains about 350 mg of calcium.

  • Enriched cereals: The amount of calcium in enriched cereals varies depending on the brand.

  • Vegetable milk (soy, almond, oatmeal): Many types of plant milk are enriched with calcium and vitamin D. One cup (240 ml) of enriched vegetable milk can contain as much calcium as cow’s milk.

D. Other calcium sources (tofu, fish with bones, nuts and seeds)

Other calcium sources include:

  • TOF: Tofu, prepared using calcium sulfate, is a good source of calcium. Half of the cup (126 g) Tofu contains about 250 mg of calcium.

  • Fish with bones (sardins, salmon): Fish with bones, such as sardines and salmon, contains a significant amount of calcium. 85 g of Sardin contain about 325 mg of calcium.

  • Nuts and seeds (almonds, sesame seeds): Nuts and seeds also contain calcium, but in smaller quantities than dairy products. For example, 30 g of almonds contain about 75 mg of calcium.

IV. Calcium additives for pregnant women

If it is impossible to get a sufficient amount of calcium from food, the doctor may recommend taking calcium additives.

A. Types of calcium additives (calcium carbonate, calcium citrate)

There are various types of calcium additives:

  • Calcium carbonate: This is the most common and affordable type of calcium additive. It must be taken during meals, since gastric acid is required for absorption.

  • Calcium citrate: This type of calcium additive is more easily absorbed, especially people with low acidity of the stomach. It can be taken regardless of eating.

B. Dosage and recommendations for admission

The dosage of calcium additives should be determined by the doctor. It is important not to exceed the recommended dose, as this can lead to side effects.

  • Take calcium additives in small doses (no more than 500 mg) during the day to improve absorption.

  • Take calcium carbonate during meals.

  • If you have problems with calcium assimilation, choose calcium citrate.

C. Possible side effects and contraindications

Reception of calcium additives can cause side effects, such as:

  • Constipation: This is one of the most common side effects.

  • Bloating: Calcium additives can cause bloating and gases.

  • Nausea: In some cases, calcium additives can cause nausea.

Calcium additives are contraindicated to people with:

  • Hypercalcemia: This is a condition in which the level of calcium in the blood is too high.

  • Hypercalciuria: This is a condition in which the level of calcium in the urine is too high.

  • Kidney stones: Calcium additives can increase the risk of kidney stones.

D. Interaction with other drugs

Calcium additives can interact with some drugs, such as:

  • Antibiotics (tetracycline, fluoroquinolones): Calcium can reduce the absorption of these antibiotics.

  • Iron preparations: Calcium can reduce iron absorption.

  • Levothyroxine: Calcium can reduce the absorption of levotiroxin, thyroid hormone.

Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor before taking calcium additives, especially if you take any medicine.

V. Vitamin D and its role in the assimilation of calcium

Vitamin D plays a key role in the absorption of calcium. Without a sufficient amount of vitamin D, the body cannot effectively absorb calcium, even if it is enough in the diet.

A. The connection between vitamin D and calcium

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium from food and additives. It also helps regulate the level of calcium in the blood.

B. Sources of vitamin D (sunlight, food, additives)

Vitamin D can be obtained from various sources:

  • Sunlight: The body produces vitamin D under the influence of sunlight. However, the amount of vitamin D produced under the influence of sunlight depends on many factors, such as the time of year, time of day, geographical position and skin color.

  • Food: Some foods contain vitamin D, such as:

    • Fat fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel)
    • Egg yolks
    • Enriched products (milk, cereals)

  • Supplements: Vitamin D can be taken in the form of additives.

C. Recommended dose of vitamin D for pregnant women

The recommended daily dose of vitamin D for pregnant women is 600 IU (15 μg). In some cases, the doctor may recommend a higher dose.

D. Vitamin D deficiency and its consequences

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy can lead to:

  • Violation of calcium assimilation
  • Rachita has a child
  • Osteomination in the mother
  • Precompiles

VI. Practical advice on providing sufficient calcium consumption during pregnancy

A. Development of a power plan rich in calcium

Make a power plan that includes products rich in calcium, such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables, enriched products and other calcium sources.

B. Regular stay in the sun for the synthesis of vitamin D

Spend enough time in the sun (15-20 minutes a day) to stimulate the production of vitamin D.

C. Consultation with a doctor regarding additives

Consult a doctor about taking calcium and vitamin additives, if you are not sure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D from food.

D. Alternative calcium sources for women with lactose intolerance

If you have lactose intolerance, choose alternative calcium sources, such as:

  • Labolate milk and yogurt
  • Vegetable milk enriched with calcium
  • Tofu cooked using calcium sulfate
  • Fish with bones (sardins, salmon)
  • Green sheet vegetables

E. Examples of dishes and recipes rich in calcium

  • Oatmeal with milk and fruits: Oatmeal, cooked in milk and supplemented with fruits, is an excellent source of calcium and fiber.

  • Spinach salad with feta cheese and almond: Spinach salad, feta and almond cheese contains calcium, vitamins and antioxidants.

  • Smuses with yogurt, fruits and seeds of Chia: Smuses with yogurt, fruits and seeds of Chia is a quick and simple way to get calcium, protein and fiber.

  • Tofu, fried with vegetables: Tofu, fried with vegetables, is a vegetarian source of calcium and protein.

VII. Calcium monitoring and consultation with a specialist

It is important to regularly control the level of calcium in the body and consult a doctor or a nutritionist to ensure sufficient calcium consumption during pregnancy.

A. Regular blood tests to control the level of calcium

The doctor may prescribe blood tests to control the level of calcium in the body.

B. Consultations with a doctor or nutritionist for an individual assessment of needs

Consult a doctor or a nutritionist for an individual assessment of your needs for calcium and vitamin D during pregnancy.

C. Correcting the diet and taking additives if necessary

If necessary, a doctor or nutritionist can adjust your diet and reception of additives to ensure sufficient consumption of calcium and vitamin D.

VIII. Research and scientific data on calcium and pregnancy

Numerous studies confirm the importance of sufficient calcium consumption during pregnancy.

A. A review of scientific research confirming the benefits of calcium for pregnant women

Studies have shown that sufficient calcium consumption during pregnancy is associated with:

  • Reducing the risk of preeclampsia
  • Reducing the risk of premature birth
  • Improving the health of bones in a child
  • Reducing the risk of osteoporosis in the mother

B. Links to authoritative sources and scientific publications

All information in this article is based on authoritative sources and scientific publications, such as the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Institute of Health (NIH) and other authoritative medical organizations.

IX. Myths and misconceptions about calcium and pregnancy

There are several myths and misconceptions about calcium and pregnancy that must be dispelled.

A. common myths about calcium during pregnancy

  • Myth: Pregnant women do not need more calcium than non -pregnant. This is not true. Pregnant women need more calcium to maintain the health of the mother and the development of the fetus.

  • Myth: Calcium can only be obtained from dairy products. This is not true. Calcium can be obtained from various sources, including green leafy vegetables, enriched products and other sources.

  • Myth: Reception of calcium additives is always safe. This is not true. Reception of calcium additives can cause side effects and interact with some drugs.

B. Explanation of these myths from a scientific point of view

All these myths are based on insufficient information and do not correspond to scientific data. It is important to rely on verified information and consult a doctor or nutritionist to receive the right recommendations.

X. The role of calcium in the prevention of bone diseases after pregnancy

Sufficient calcium consumption during pregnancy is not only useful for the mother and child, but also helps to prevent bone diseases after pregnancy.

A. Calcium and prevention of osteoporosis after childbirth

Sufficient calcium consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding helps to maintain the bone mass of the mother and reduce the risk of osteoporosis in the future.

B. Other measures to maintain bone health after pregnancy (physical exercises, healthy lifestyle)

In addition to sufficient calcium consumption, it is important to maintain bone health after pregnancy with:

  • Regular physical exercises: Physical exercises, especially weighting exercises, help strengthen the bones.

  • Healthy lifestyle: Refusal of smoking and moderate alcohol consumption is also important for bone health.

XI. Special cases and individual characteristics

In some cases, women may need special attention to calcium consumption during pregnancy.

A. Pregnancy in adolescents

Pregnant adolescents need even more calcium than adult pregnant women, since their bones still continue to form.

B. Pregnancy after 35 years

Women pregnant after 35 years have a higher risk of osteoporosis and need special attention to calcium consumption.

C. Women with chronic diseases

Women with chronic diseases, such as kidney diseases, thyroid diseases and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, need an individual assessment of calcium needs.

XII. Conclusion

Calcium plays a vital role in the health of the mother and the development of the fetus during pregnancy. Sufficient calcium consumption is necessary for the formation of a healthy skeleton and teeth of the child, as well as to maintain the health of the mother’s bones and prevent various complications. It is important to monitor your nutrition, include in the diet products rich in calcium, and, if necessary, consult a doctor about taking additives. Regular monitoring of calcium levels and consultations with a specialist will help ensure the optimal health of the mother and child throughout pregnancy. Remember that taking care of your health during pregnancy is a contribution to the future health of your child.

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