Calcium is one of the most important minerals in building and maintaining the teeth and bones of the baby. It is usually absent in apparently healthy diets also. Pregnant women should consume adequate amount of the minerals to help the heart, nerve impulses and muscles function properly. Expectant mothers should take in double the amount of calcium to prevent osteoporosis as the baby draws the required amount from the mother’s bones.

You should consume about 1200 milligrams per day and dairy products like milk, yogurt, hard cheese, ice creams, soft cheese etc. provided the amount required if taken frequently during the day. About 4 cups of milk a day are enough to meet your calcium needs. Non dairy products like lentils, okra, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, tofu, sardines and broccoli are very good sources of calcium and if eaten in adequate amounts keep your calcium levels balanced.

Calcium fortified food like orange juice, cereal, cereal bars, bread, waffles can fulfill your requirement. By the second trimester of your pregnancy the calcium requirement increases to about 1500 milligrams per day

For good bone health, and to absorb calcium, vitamin D is necessary. Milk is fortified with vitamin D but all dairy products are not. Rays of the sun also help to raise vitamin D levels in the body. So expose yourself to sun for some time everyday during pregnancy.

Calcium should be consumed not only during the pregnancy but also after to keep both you and your baby’s bones and teeth healthy.