Some women believe that good pregnancy nutrition includes a high level 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. What's true is that many women do not get the appropriate amount each day even before becoming 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. All too often, most are only consuming around 700 mg. 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.

Natural Sources of Calcium

While it's important not to rely solely on calcium supplements, they can be an effective part of a solid pregnancy nutrition plan. In addition to taking supplements, pregnant and breastfeeding women should make sure they are consuming other natural sources of calcium. For those who eat dairy products, these can be a great source. Dark, green, leafy vegetables are another natural place to turn to. Many food and drink manufacturers are now supplementing their products with calcium, especially orange juice producers.

Adding the Right Kind of Calcium Supplements

For many women, insufficient levels of calcium are a problem when they think their daily vitamin provides the right amount. Of course, typical daily vitamins do not contain a level even close to suggested daily requirements. Also, there may be problems with the calcium absorption in the body. When considering pregnancy nutrition, it is important to select calcium supplements that the body understands and assimilates properly. The best picks are whole food calcium supplements.

Getting the best results with calcium supplements means taking them at mealtime and avoiding those that list bone meal in the ingredients. It has been reported that bone meal may include toxic elements that shouldn't be eaten and definitely not included in a pregnancy nutrition plan, according to the March of Dimes. 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.

More Useful Information about Calcium Supplements and Pregnancy Nutrition

The body cannot usually take in more than 60% of its daily calcium amount in one occasion. So, you can see the importance of taking calcium supplements more than once a day for perfect pregnancy nutrition.