The Importance Of Calcium In Your Diet During Pregnancy

Calcium during pregnancy

Key highlights or summary

  • 99% of the body's calcium is present in our bones and teeth and the remaining 1% is found in the blood, muscles, and tissues.
  • It is advised that women aged 19-50 years take around 1000 milligrams of calcium per day.
  • During the third trimester, the calcium requirements of the baby rise to 350 milligrams per day.
  • 99% of the calcium required by the fetus is received via the placenta from its mother.
  • Calcium supplementation can reduce the risk of gestational hypertension by 45%.
  • The mother can face long-term bone changes due to calcium deficiency during pregnancy.
  • Hypocalcemia can be avoided by choosing calcium supplements.

Meet our expert

Meet our expert

Rate our article

We'd love to know!

  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0

How was the experience with article?

We'd love to know!

  1. Kumar A, et al. Calcium: A Nutrient in Pregnancy. J Obstet Gynaecol India. 2017;67(5):313-318.
  2. Imdad A, et al. Role of calcium supplementation during pregnancy in reducing the risk of developing gestational hypertensive disorders: a meta-analysis of studies from developing countries. (2011). BMC public health, 11 Suppl 3 (Suppl 3), S18.
  3. Andrea N, et al.Role of calcium during pregnancy: maternal and fetal needs, Nutrition Reviews, Volume 70, Issue 7, 1 July 2012, Pages 397-409,
  4. Almaghamsi A, et al. Hypocalcemia in Pregnancy: A Clinical Review Update. Oman Med J. 2018;33(6):453-462.