18/03/2026
Think of calcium as the primary building block for the next nine months.
Why the Baby Needs It
Your baby’s demand for calcium peaks during the third trimester, when their skeleton is rapidly hardening.
Skeletal Development: It’s essential for building strong bones and teeth.
Heart Health: Helps develop a normal heart rhythm.
Functionality: Aids in the development of healthy muscles, nerves, and blood-clotting abilities.
Why the Mother Needs It
Calcium isn't just for the baby; it keeps your "machinery" running smoothly while under the extra physical stress of pregnancy.
Bone Density Protection: As mentioned, if your intake is low, the baby will draw calcium from your teeth and bones, which can increase your risk of osteoporosis later in life.
Preeclampsia Prevention: Adequate calcium intake is linked to a lower risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia (a serious high blood pressure condition).
Muscle Function: It helps prevent those notorious leg cramps that many pregnant women experience.
Daily Requirements & Sources
Most pregnant women need about 1,000 mg of calcium per day (1,300 mg if you're 18 or younger).
Food SourceApproximate Calcium ContentYogurt (Plain, 1 cup)450 mgMilk (1 cup)300 mgSardines (3 oz with bones)325 mgFortified Orange Juice (1 cup)300 mgCooked Spinach (1 cup)240 mgTofu (1/2 cup)250–800 mg.