Protect Yourself and Your Baby: The Benefits of Calcium Supplements for Pregnant Women

As an expectant mother, you are responsible for ensuring that you and your baby are healthy throughout your pregnancy. One of the ways to ensure this is by taking the recommended daily dose of calcium. Calcium is essential for the development of your baby's bones, teeth, and muscles. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of calcium supplements for pregnant women, how much calcium is needed, and how to choose the right supplement.

The Importance of Calcium During Pregnancy

Calcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones, teeth, and muscles. During pregnancy, your baby needs calcium to develop properly. If you do not consume enough calcium, your baby will take the calcium it needs from your bones, which can lead to osteoporosis later in life. Calcium also helps to regulate blood clotting, nerve function, and muscle function.

How Much Calcium Do Pregnant Women Need?

Pregnant women require more calcium than non-pregnant women. The recommended daily intake (RDI) of calcium for pregnant women is 1000-1300 mg per day, depending on your age and health status. Women who are over 18 years old should aim for 1000 mg per day, while women who are under 18 years old should aim for 1300 mg per day.

Food Sources of Calcium for Pregnant Women

There are many food sources of calcium that pregnant women can consume. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium. Other sources include leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and tofu. However, it can be difficult to consume enough calcium through diet alone, so calcium supplements are often necessary. For those who are lactose intolerant for them depending on soluble calcium supplements are more common.

Why Calcium Supplements Are Necessary for Pregnant Women

Calcium supplements are necessary for pregnant women because it can be difficult to consume enough calcium through diet alone. Additionally, some women have difficulty digesting dairy products or are lactose intolerant, which can limit their calcium intake. Calcium supplements can provide a convenient and effective way to ensure that you and your baby are getting enough calcium.

Types of Calcium Supplements for Pregnant Women

There are three main types of calcium supplements: 100% water-soluble calcium supplement powder, calcium citrate tablet and calcium carbonate as well as antacids. Calcium carbonate is the most common form of calcium supplement and is often less expensive. However, it needs to be taken with food to release calcium in it. Calcium citrate is an alternative source of supplement and relatively absorbed better than calcium carbonate tablet.  100% water-soluble and absorbable calcium is always better which does not depend on food intake and not need to swallow a big tablet.

Benefits of Taking Calcium Supplements During Pregnancy

Taking calcium supplements during pregnancy has many benefits. Calcium supplements can help to prevent pre-eclampsia, a potentially life-threatening condition that can develop during pregnancy. Calcium supplements can also reduce the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Additionally, calcium supplements can help to prevent osteoporosis later in life.

Risks of Calcium Deficiency During Pregnancy

Calcium deficiency during pregnancy can lead to a number of health problems. These include pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, low birth weight, and osteoporosis later in life. Additionally, calcium deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, heart palpitations, and lethargy.

How to Choose the Right Calcium Supplement for Pregnant Women

When choosing a calcium supplement, it is important to choose one that is safe and effective for pregnant women. Choose a supplement that is easily absorbed by the body, usually the calcium supplements have mixtures of calcium gluconate, calcium lactate, calcium citrate, calcium acetate and calcium malate.   All these listed calcium compounds are part of human metabolism so our body is extremely familiar with these compounds and these are all water soluble whether there is any food in stomach or not.  Additionally, choose a supplement that is free of harmful additives and fillers.  Calcium carbonate tablets or chewables are not soluble at all in water, most of the times they pass through the body as solid waste.  It is used mostly as a cheaper alternative but only can deliver at the most 7-8% of the total supplied amount research studies show.

Precautions and Side Effects of Calcium Supplements for Pregnant Women

While calcium supplements are generally safe for pregnant women, there are some precautions and side effects to be aware of. Taking too much calcium can lead to constipation, bloating, and nausea. Additionally, calcium supplements can interfere with the absorption of other minerals, such as iron and magnesium. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements during pregnancy.

Conclusion: The Benefits of Calcium Supplements for Pregnant Women and Their Babies

In conclusion, calcium supplements are essential for pregnant women and their babies. Calcium is necessary for the development of strong bones, teeth, and muscles. While there are many food sources of calcium, it can be difficult to consume enough through diet alone. Calcium supplements can provide a convenient and effective way to ensure that you and your baby are getting enough calcium. When choosing a calcium supplement, choose one that is safe and effective for pregnant women, and talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements. Use soluble and digestible calcium supplement powder like Totally Calcium to protect mothers and babies. 

Source URL: https://totallycalcium.com/calcium-supplementation/protect-yourself-and-your-baby-the-benefits-of-calcium-supplements-for-pregnant-women/

Understanding the link between IBS and Calcium Deficiency as well as Calcium Carbonate and IBS-D

 ‍Figure: Natural food and vegetables high in calcium can also be supplemented further by spreading Totally Calcium on them without altering the taste or flavor.

Calcium is an essential mineral for our bodies. It plays an important role in bone health, muscle contraction, and nervous system functioning. But did you know that calcium deficiency can also lead to other health problems, such as IBS and IBD-D? In this blog, we’ll explore the link between IBS and calcium deficiency as well as calcium carbonate and IBS-D.

What is IBS and Calcium Deficiency?

Commonly occurring irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder that mostly affects the large intestine. It is characterized by symptoms like abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas, cramping, pain, constipation and diarrhea. It can range from mild to severe and can be difficult to diagnose.

Calcium deficiency, or hypocalcemia, is a condition where the body doesn’t have enough calcium in the bloodstream. It is caused by a variety of factors, including dietary deficiencies, malabsorption, and certain medications. Symptoms include muscle cramps, fatigue, and tingling in the fingers and toes. It can also lead to more serious health problems, such as osteoporosis.

What is the link between IBS and Calcium Deficiency?

There is some evidence to suggest that calcium deficiency may be linked to IBS. One study found that IBS patients had lower levels of calcium in their blood than those without IBS. Additionally, calcium supplementation has been found to reduce symptoms of IBS. It is thought that calcium may help to reduce inflammation in the intestines, which in turn can reduce symptoms of IBS.

Calcium also plays an important role in regulating the movement of the large intestine. If calcium levels are low, the movement can be disrupted, leading to constipation and other symptoms of IBS. Additionally, calcium is needed for healthy digestion, and a deficiency can cause issues such as gas and bloating.

What is Calcium Carbonate and IBS-D?

Calcium carbonate is a form of calcium supplement that is available over the counter. It is often used to treat calcium deficiency and can help to prevent calcium deficiency related diseases. It is also sometimes used to treat IBD-D, which stands for Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Diarrhea. IBD-D is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. It is characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.  Calcium carbonate often becomes the cause of gas, bloating and abdominal discomfort which adds one more dimension to discomfort related to IBD-D.  Instead, water soluble calcium supplements like Totally Calcium may eliminate the discomfort of gas and bloating as well as alleviate the symptoms of IBD-D the digestive tract.

Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency

The most common symptom of calcium deficiency is muscle cramps. Other symptoms include fatigue, tingling in the fingers and toes, dry skin, brittle nails, and impaired nerve transmission. Calcium deficiency can also lead to more serious health problems, such as osteoporosis and heart arrhythmia.

Complications and Diseases associated with Calcium Deficiency

A calcium deficiency can lead to a variety of complications and diseases. Osteoporosis is one of the most common complications associated with calcium deficiency. It is a condition where the bones become weak and brittle. Other complications include kidney stones, hypertension, and hypoparathyroidism. Additionally, calcium deficiency can increase the risk of certain cancers, such as colon cancer.In addition, those who regularly take proton pump inhibitor drugs they might have poor absorption of calcium due to low solubilities of calcium carbonate like supplements.  This solubility related poor absorption issues could be resolved if a soluble calcium supplements like Totally Calcium is chosen as a supplement.

Diagnosis of Calcium Deficiency

Calcium deficiency is usually diagnosed with a blood test. The test measures the amount of calcium in the blood and is used to diagnose both hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia. Additionally, a urine test may be used to measure the amount of calcium in the urine. This can help to confirm a diagnosis of calcium deficiency.

Treatment and Management Options for Calcium Deficiency

The treatment and management of calcium deficiency depends on the cause. If the deficiency is caused by dietary deficiencies or malabsorption, then the first step is to adjust the diet to include more calcium-rich foods. In some cases, calcium supplements may also be prescribed.

In addition to dietary changes, lifestyle changes can also help to manage calcium deficiency. Regular exercise and weight-bearing activities can help to keep bones strong. Additionally, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and processed foods can help to reduce the risk of calcium deficiency.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Calcium Deficiency

Making dietary and lifestyle changes can help to reduce the risk of calcium deficiency. Eating a diet that is rich in calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, dark leafy greens, and certain types of fish, can help to increase calcium intake. Additionally, getting regular exercise and avoiding smoking, alcohol, and processed foods can help to reduce the risk of calcium deficiency.

Conclusion

Calcium is an essential mineral for our bodies and a calcium deficiency can lead to a variety of health problems, such as IBS and IBS-D. The link between IBS and calcium deficiency is thought to be related to the role calcium plays in regulating the movement of the large intestine.

Making dietary and lifestyle changes can help to reduce the risk of calcium deficiency. Eating a diet that is rich in calcium-rich foods and getting regular exercise can help to keep bones strong and reduce the risk of calcium deficiency. If you are experiencing symptoms of calcium deficiency, it is important to speak to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.If you want to learn more about calcium deficiency and how to prevent or manage it, check out our blogs for more helpful tips.

Kidney Stones – From Causes to Prevention

 Do you often feel pain in your lower or back side of the body? Or feel the need to urinate more often? Chances are that you might be having a stone in your kidney. According to studies, kidney stones are a common disease that affects every 1 in 10 people. It mostly affects people aging 30 to 60. Kidney stones can be painful for some people who might not feel them. The common symptoms of kidney stones include blood in urine, pain in the lower back, vomiting, nausea, chills, and fever. These symptoms may vary from person to person.

There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to kidney stones. The first and most commonly known is that all stones are painful. They are not. There are different types of kidney stones, and the severity depends upon the size and time duration of the stones. In some cases, kidney stones don’t require any medical attention, especially for people who frequently go through them. They take preventative measures like taking calcium supplements; kidney stones can be prevented by maintaining adequate calcium levels in the body, according to studies. Here are some other common causes of kidney stones, and prevention against these causes can reduce the chances of stones in your kidney.

Cause of Kidney Stones

The stone formation can occur due to a number of reasons. The most common causes are mentioned below.

Dehydration

Dehydration is one of the leading causes of kidney stones. Drinking a lot of water can lead you to urinate, which can create lesser chances of stone formation in the kidney. Another factor of less urination is more sweating. The more a person sweats, the lower the urine production – allowing the stone minerals to settle and bond in the urinary tract and kidneys. Hence, drinking a lot of water will not allow the mineral to form a stone.

Is Losing Weight with Calcium Supplements Healthy?

Obesity is one of the major concerns in the world. It affects about 40% of adults in the US. It is considered a public health crisis in the United States and considered more dangerous than the opioid epidemic. It affects the health of an individual in various ways as it brings the threat of several diseases at once. According to a study, obesity is responsible for about 18% of deaths in the US, is now considered a public health hazard, and is comparable to cigarette smoking.

Especially after the pandemic, people are finding healthier alternatives to losing weight. A healthy lifestyle and regular exercise are common practices for weight loss and fighting obesity. Another recent finding has shown that calcium and weight loss are interlinked. Calcium through supplements can help burn down excess fat, whereas calcium from dietary cannot have such an effect on burning fat. 

The Relationship Between Calcium and Weight Loss 

Calcium and weight loss are interrelated for many reasons. Calcium helps in losing weight due to several reasons. There is no exaggeration in the fact that calcium plays a leading role in body functions. Studies show when calcium is stored in cells, it gives less space for the fat to adjust. The cell will burn more fat in order for the calcium to adjust, which may result in greater weight loss. 

Calcium provides a significant increase in the process of thermogenesis – known as the core temperature of the body. Thermogenesis can boost metabolism, which can burn fat faster. Calcium also lowers hunger sensations and suppresses diet, ultimately may result in weight loss. 

Additional Benefits of Weight Loss with Calcium Supplements 

Here is a list of additional benefits that regular calcium intake ensures. 

A Maintained Blood-Pressure

Calcium helps in the regulation of blood pressure. This is why there is a compulsion for calcium supplements for pregnant women, as hypertension in pregnant women can lead to serious complications. Obesity is very harmful to people with hypertension. Both of them make a deadly combination that can create life-threatening conditions. Calcium weight loss can help control your blood pressure as well.  

Better Sleep 

Recent evidence suggests that calcium plays a leading role in relaxing the brain and helps in the sleeping process. According to studies, calcium is a natural sleeping aid as it helps to use tryptophan, a type of amino acid that helps produce melatonin, a hormone that helps maintain the sleep cycle. 

Lower Risk of Cancer 

According to a study, a total of 13 cancers are associated with obesity. Weight loss can decrease the risks of these cancers, while the added benefit of weight loss through calcium supplements may help prevent colorectal cancer. Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is the most common cancer affecting about one in 23 men and one in 25 women. Adequate levels of calcium in the body may help prevent colorectal cancer and may also help losing weight simultaneously. 

Conclusion 

The overdose of any medication can have an adverse effect on your health, which implies calcium supplements as well. Meeting the daily targets of calcium and weight loss at once is possible with Totally CALCIUM®, that are 100% soluble and highly absorbable. They are safe to take by people of all ages and genders and as always should be taken after consulting with doctor.

Lactose Intolerant? Here Are Some Creative Ways of Incorporating Calcium in Your Food

Lactose malabsorption, commonly known as lactose intolerance, is usually the result of the insufficiency of the enzyme lactase because the body is unable to produce it. As a result, they can experience bloating, stomach or chest pain, diarrhea, or gastric problems. The condition has no harm, but it can be uncomfortable and cause serious digestive problems if left untreated. In this situation, people with lactose intolerance struggle with daily calcium intake as there are not many choices when it comes to lactose-free products and high calcium food. Although the degrees of lactose intolerance may vary from type to type, for some people, having lactose-free or low levels of lactose products may be an option. In this case, calcium supplements are a life savior, and if they are 100% soluble like Totally CALCIUM, it feels too good to be true, especially to people with lactose intolerance.

Have a Healthy Breakfast

Calcium intake is necessary for people of every age group as 99% of our bones and teeth are made up of calcium. The benefits of calcium supplements are undeniable but having a healthy breakfast is equally important for every individual. If you are lactose intolerant, breakfast is a must as breakfast products like bread, fruits and cereals have calcium. A healthy breakfast can decrease the risks of heart failure by maintaining blood-sugar levels. Calcium-fortified orange juice is also a great substitute for milk for lactose-intolerant people.

The Use of Nuts, Vegetables, and Beans

Studies show that about 30 to 50 million American adults are lactose intolerant, and managing your calcium intake can be quite challenging. In this case, having nuts as a snack can be a source of losing weight and maintaining calcium levels. Among all the nuts, almonds have the highest amount of calcium as a human body needs about 1000 mg of calcium intake for men and women per day, despite their lactose intolerance.

Calcium Supplements- a lifesaver

There are several benefits of calcium supplements, but it is a blessing for people with lactose intolerance. As for them, completing the daily target of calcium intake can be challenging, and in times like these, calcium supplements can be your rescuer. When it comes to calcium supplements, one of the things you must look out for as a lactose intolerant person is if your supplements are soluble, and for that, Totally CALCIUM is highly recommended. These supplements are the key to maintaining the strength of your bones and preventing diseases like osteoporosis. The other best feature of Totally CALCIUM is that it is safe to use for people of all ages.

A Healthy Diet After a Bone Fracture

 

Bone fractures are the worst! One day you would be active performing your routine workout out at the park, breathing in the fresh air, and the next thing you know, you’re screaming in pain after taking a hard fall. What is worse is finding out you have gotten a bone fracture that will take months to heal, keeping you away from performing physical activity.

What about the concert you had to attend with your friends? Or that movie you had to watch on your date night? All your plans have gone down the drain. But there is no need to be so broken about it. We’ve got a remedy to help you heal faster and better. Did you know that a healthy, well-balanced diet containing calcium can speed things?

It’s unnecessary to take calcium supplements for health benefits; you can also consume calcium from food sources if your diet contains the following nutrition.

1)    Calcium

Calcium is the most important mineral that must be taken in sufficient amounts to heal bone fractures  whether it is provided as calcium supplements for bones or part of regular diet. Every adult must get around 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium every day. Your doctor will guide you on the daily dose of calcium required every day. Good sources such as milk, yogurt, cheese, broccoli, nuts, kale, soy, and salmon must be taken in large quantities.

If you are a fan of fruit juices, have some calcium fortified citrus cold press juices. Some calcium fortified cereals can also work if you want to switch things up a bit and make breakfasts more interesting. These breakfasts will have enough calcium supplements for bones for morning.

2)    Vitamin D

Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption. Without sufficient vitamin D in the body, the calcium consumed gets disposed of through the body with waste instead of getting absorbed in the bloodstream. Spending around fifteen minutes out in the sun can help you meet your daily vitamin D requirement.

Furthermore, it can also be consumed through foods like egg yolks, fatty fish, milk, and calcium fortified orange juice. Every adult must get at least 600 IU of vitamin D every day. People above 70 must get a dose of at least 800 IU.

3)    Protein

About half of the bone structure is made out of protein and in case of a bone fracture, your body needs loads of it to repair. Protein also helps your bones take in calcium and other nutrients. We recommend eating lean protein, lentils, cheese, yogurt, nuts, seeds, and soya to fulfill your daily protein requirement.

Take at least two portions of protein to fulfill your daily requirements. You can also have slow-cooked meat to get maximum protein in your body.

The Verdict

While experts recommend getting calcium, protein, vitamin D, and iron from foods, it’s not a piece of cake for everyone to make Mediterranean-style food rich in colorful plants, legumes, and fish. For individuals who cannot afford the time or energy to consume calcium-rich foods, Totally Calcium’s also, calcium tablets for bones are a total savior, as they supply plenty of calcium in the most convenient way. As far as vitamin D is concerned, it’s easily found in sunlight so soak up as much as the sun to get your daily requirement.