What to eat if you are deficient in calcium during pregnancy? Scientific Guide to Calcium Supplementation
During pregnancy, calcium is a key nutrient for the development of fetal bones and teeth, and is also an essential element for maintaining the mother's own health. Insufficient calcium intake may cause cramps, osteoporosis, and even affect fetal development in pregnant women. The following is a detailed guide on calcium supplementation during pregnancy, including food recommendations, precautions and data references.
1. Daily calcium requirements during pregnancy

| crowd | Daily calcium requirement (mg) |
|---|---|
| average adult | 800-1000 |
| Early pregnancy (1-3 months) | 1000 |
| Second and third trimester of pregnancy (4-9 months) | 1000-1200 |
| Lactation | 1200 |
2. Recommendations for high-calcium foods
The following foods are high-quality sources of natural calcium and are suitable for daily supplementation by pregnant women:
| food category | represents food | Calcium content (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|
| dairy products | milk, yogurt, cheese | 100-120mg (milk) |
| Soy products | Tofu, soy milk, black beans | 130-150mg (Northern Tofu) |
| green leafy vegetables | Mustard greens, amaranth, rapeseed | 80-200mg |
| nuts seeds | sesame, almond, hazelnut | 500-800mg (sesame) |
| seafood | Shrimp skin, dried fish | 1000-2000mg (Shopee) |
3. Precautions for calcium supplementation
1.Supplement in batches: A single intake of calcium should not exceed 500mg. It is recommended to take it in 2-3 times.
2.With Vitamin D: Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption and can be supplemented by sunbathing or eating egg yolks and deep-sea fish.
3.Avoid distractions: Coffee, strong tea, and high-salt diet will inhibit calcium absorption.
4.Calcium agent selection: If the diet is insufficient, you can choose calcium carbonate, calcium citrate and other supplements under the guidance of a doctor.
4. Examples of calcium supplement recipes
| Meals | Recipes | Calcium content estimate |
|---|---|---|
| breakfast | Milk oatmeal + tahini bread | About 400mg |
| lunch | Fish stew with tofu + stir-fried mustard greens | About 350mg |
| Extra meal | Yogurt + Almonds | About 200mg |
| dinner | Shrimp and seaweed soup + cheese salad | About 300mg |
5. Common Misunderstandings
1.Bone broth for calcium?: The calcium content of bone broth is very low (about 2-4mg/100ml), which is far inferior to drinking milk directly.
2.Just rely on calcium tablets?: Calcium in food is easier to absorb and contains other synergistic nutrients.
3.The more calcium the better?: Excessive consumption may cause constipation or affect the absorption of iron and zinc.
Summary: Calcium supplementation during pregnancy should be based on diet, with a diverse selection of high-calcium foods, supplemented by supplements when necessary. Regular prenatal check-ups monitor calcium levels to ensure the health of mother and baby.
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