Pregnancy is an important stage in a woman’s life, demanding necessary nutrients for the mother and the baby. Among the essential nutrients, iron supplements and calcium supplements are important for a healthy pregnancy. Proper intake of these minerals prevents anaemia, improves bone strength and supports foetal growth.
In this blog, we will address the best pregnancy supplements for iron and calcium and help you choose the best iron calcium tablet in pregnancy.
Why do expectant mothers need iron and calcium?
During pregnancy, the female body experiences several changes making her body require more iron and calcium.
- Iron- Supports the production of haemoglobin to prevent anaemia and provide sufficient oxygen to the baby.
- Calcium- For the formation of the baby’s bones, teeth and muscle function, along with keeping the mother’s bone density intact.
Best Iron Supplements for Pregnancy
Iron helps the higher blood volume of pregnancy and prevents anaemia. It causes fatigue when there is a deficiency and contributes to the risk of premature delivery. The best pregnancy supplements contain iron to satisfy the daily recommended dose of 27 milligrams.
Choosing the best iron supplements is crucial in avoiding iron deficiency anaemia. Here are some of the best ones-
Ferrous sulphate tablets
- One of the most frequently prescribed iron calcium tablets in pregnancy.
- Easily absorbed and helps in increasing haemoglobin levels.
- Can cause mild constipation, drinking lots of water is recommended.
Ferrous fumarate supplements
- Has high elemental iron levels.
- Less prone to causing digestive problems than ferrous sulphate
- Mostly found in the best pregnancy supplements list
Iron with vitamin C tablets
- Vitamin C improves iron absorption.
- Reduces the risk of iron deficiency anaemia
- Also comes in chewable and liquid forms for easy consumption.
Slow-release iron tablets
- These are best for people who experience upset stomachs with taking regular iron tablets.
- Slow release of iron ensures improved absorption with fewer side effects.
Best Calcium Supplements for Pregnancy
Calcium is necessary to create strong teeth and bones for the baby while also supporting your bone health. A pregnant woman should consider an intake of 1000 mg of calcium per day during pregnancy. Pregnancy calcium supplements can be used to obtain the necessary calcium intake in case of insufficient dietary intake.
Here are the best calcium and iron tablets for pregnant women:
- Calcium Carbonate Tablets
- High elemental calcium content.
- Best consumed with meals for enhanced absorption.
- In chewable and tablet forms.
- Calcium Citrate Supplements
- Easy to digest and absorb even on an empty stomach.
- Ideal for women with acid reflux or digestive disorders.
- Usually combined with vitamin D for improved absorption.
- Calcium with magnesium supplement
- Magnesium helps relaxation of muscles and decreases pregnancy cramps.
- Zinc boosts immunity and foetal development.
- A well-rounded supplement for pregnant women.
- Plant-Based Calcium Supplements
- Perfect for vegan/vegetarian mothers.
- Sourced from algae and other vegetables.
- Commonly blended with vitamin D and K2 to support bone health.
Choosing the right Iron Calcium Supplements
Use the following guidelines when choosing the best pregnancy supplements:
- Consult a doctor: It is essential to consult a doctor before starting any new regimen of iron supplements to make sure it is safe and suitable for your pregnancy needs.
- Select high-quality brands: Buy prenatal tablets from renowned brands that are thoroughly tested for purity and quality.
- Check labels closely: The best pregnancy supplements always include the required nutrients in the specified proportions.
Tips for Consuming Iron and Calcium Tablets During Pregnancy
- Take iron supplements on an empty stomach for enhanced absorption, but if you feel nauseated, take them with a light meal.
- Don’t take iron supplements with calcium, milk products, or caffeine, as they slow down absorption.
- It is advised to take calcium supplements separately from iron for maximum benefits.
- Stay hydrated and consume vitamin C foods such as oranges and bell peppers to enhance iron absorption.
Experience healthy pregnancy experience with the best calcium and iron tablets – Trimacare
Trimacare prenatal multivitamins are professionally crafted under the WHO and ICMR guidelines and are strongly recommended by top gynaecologists across the nation.
Trimacare prenatal tablets are formulated for each of the three trimesters and meet the different nutritional requirements during pregnancy, ensuring overall support through essential 20+ nutrients essential for the pregnant woman and the well-being of the child.
Trimacare pregnancy supplement is India’s first multivitamin with trimester-specific care and pregnancy requirements. It has Time-Release Iron, minimizing gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating.
Trimacare prenatal vitamins do not lead to stool black and have a bowel regulator to minimize pregnancy-related constipation. Trimacare prenatal pill avoids stool blacking and promotes pregnancy-related health.
Trimacare pregnancy supplements contain enough calcium, which is necessary for the formation of the baby’s bones and teeth. Calcium also helps in muscle contraction, hormone regulation, and nerve cell function.
Trimacare, unlike other calcium supplements, contains a bowel regulator to avoid constipation during pregnancy.
These features make Trimacare – the iron calcium tablet in pregnancy.
Conclusion-
Selecting the best pregnancy supplements of iron and calcium is essential to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Iron supplements help prevent anaemia, and calcium supplements provide bone and muscle support. Finding the right balance and taking supplements as recommended by your doctor can ensure a smooth and healthy pregnancy.
FAQs
- Why do I need iron and calcium when I’m pregnant?
Iron averts anemia and guarantees oxygenation, and calcium helps the bones of the fetus develop as well as mother’s bones.
- Do I need to take iron and calcium supplements at the same time?
No, take them separately because calcium might hamper the absorption of iron.
- At what time of day is it best to take iron supplements while pregnant?
Take iron on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning, with food or juice containing vitamin C for enhanced absorption.
- Can I obtain sufficient iron and calcium from my diet?
A balanced diet with iron-containing foods (leafy vegetables, beans, meat) and calcium foods (dairy products, almonds, tofu) assists, but Iron calcium tablets in pregnancy are needed to meet the increased demand during pregnancy.
