Pregnancy nutrition for some women includes a large dosage of calcium supplements. The March of Dimes reports, however, that a woman's calcium supply is fairly consistent throughout her adult life.

This is not to say that calcium supplements are not important. In fact, most women are not getting the appropriate daily amount even before they become pregnant. Once a pregnancy nutrition plan is researched, they begin to understand the pitfalls of the standard diet.

Women between the ages of nineteen and fifty are encouraged to consume around 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily. Most only get about 700 milligrams more often than not. For proper pregnancy nutrition, the recommended amount is even more vital as the baby requires some of the 1,000 mg. If the body can't get proper nutrients from the food consumed, then calcium supplements will keep it from having to borrow calcium from other body parts, like the bones of the mother.

Calcium from Natural Sources

While it's important not to rely solely on calcium supplements, they can be an effective part of a solid pregnancy nutrition plan. Expectant mothers should be certain to consume other natural sources of calcium in addition to supplements. For those who eat dairy products, these can be a great source. Leafy green vegetables are another natural solution. Some foods are now also supplemented with calcium, as is the case with many brands of orange juice.

How to Add the Rght Calcium Supplements

For many women, insufficient levels of calcium are a problem when they think their daily vitamin provides the right amount. In fact, the amount contained in a typical daily vitamin is not even close to the recommended daily allowance. 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.

To get the most out of your calcium supplements, take them with food and avoid those that are made with bone meal. The March of Dimes mentions that those with bone meal may include toxic substances that should never be part of pregnancy nutrition and should not be eaten. By taking calcium supplements with food, the body is more prepared to assimilate the nutrients, and it helps you to remember when to take it.

Other Considerations when Adding Calcium Supplements to Pregnancy Nutrition Plans

It is very important to note that the body cannot typically absorb more than about 60% of its daily allotment of calcium in one sitting. This is the reason that taking calcium supplements two or three times per day is a good idea. for perfect pregnancy nutrition.