Calcium

• • Function: Fetal skeletal mineralization & Maintenance of maternal bone health
  • RDA for women & pregnancy: 1300 mcg (<18 y/o); 1000 mg (>19 y/o)
• Calcium metabolism changes during pregnancy (Increase absorption; Decrease excretion)

  --> Meet the additional requirement (300 mg/ day in the last quarter)
• can be obtained by releasing calcium from maternal bone
• Food

  • Dairy products

  • Spinach; BUT bioavailability is poor (Oxalate)
• Supplement

  • Potential lead contamination

  • Take at a diff time from the prenatal supplement

  • Absorption is highest in doses < 500 mg