Patient's question:
Leg muscle extraction last Thursday evening, it is likely due to calcium deficiency. Previous treatment history and effectiveness: No treatment, no care what kind of assistance: I would like to ask the doctor what brand of calcium supplements are better, how long to take, what dosage...Doctor's answer:
How much additional calcium supplementation is needed and how much to supplement should be determined based on the calcium requirements for different pregnancy stages and the amount of calcium obtained from the mother's daily diet. Generally, we advocate obtaining calcium through a balanced diet and reducing dairy intake to meet the calcium needs of both the mother and the fetus. If dietary intake is insufficient, then consider taking calcium supplements. Typically, 800 mg/day is needed in the early stages of pregnancy, 1200 mg/day in the second and third trimesters, and 1500 mg/day in the late stages of pregnancy and lactation. However, the average daily dietary calcium intake for most people is only 300-400 mg, so calcium deficiency is common among pregnant women. Calcium supplementation can be achieved by drinking milk or soy milk. Generally, pregnant women's milk powder contains sufficient calcium. 1 milliliter of milk provides 1 mg of calcium, so if you drink 2 cups (500 ml) of milk daily, you can supplement 500 mg of calcium, which is usually enough in the early stages of pregnancy. In the second and third trimesters, it is best to drink 3 cups of milk, plus calcium from food, which should be sufficient. However, if you cannot drink milk or do not like drinking milk, you need to decide on a calcium supplement based on your dietary situation.A reminder for you is that the lowest blood calcium levels in the human body occur between 2:00 and 3:00 AM, when muscle cramps are more likely to occur. Therefore, it is best to drink a bag of milk or take a calcium supplement before bed. Additionally, be mindful that excessive calcium supplementation may increase the risk of kidney stones and fetal cranial fibrosis. Moreover, calcium supplementation should be stopped by the 36th week to prevent the baby's skull from developing too hard, making it easier for the head to be pushed during natural labor. Finally, wishing you and your baby a safe and healthy journey!