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Magnesium In Pregnancy: Why Is It So Important?

Many gynecologists recommend taking magnesium early in pregnancy. Because if pregnant women lack magnesium, it can lead to premature birth, among other things.

Does it make sense to take magnesium during pregnancy?

The need for magnesium is slightly increased during pregnancy. Normally, women get enough magnesium in their food. However, there are possible comorbidities in expectant mothers that make dietary supplementation with magnesium preparations sensible.

Why is magnesium important during pregnancy?

The magnesium requirement during pregnancy is 310 milligrams compared to the 300 milligrams otherwise recommended for adult women. This 10-milligram difference can usually be easily covered with food. An intake of 350 milligrams is only recommended for expectant mothers under the age of 19. The requirement increases again during breastfeeding – to 390 milligrams.

Taking magnesium during pregnancy may be indicated for medical reasons: for example, in the case of calf cramps, muscle cramps, or increased morning sickness. Nocturnal calf cramps in particular can indicate a magnesium deficiency. This can be caused by insufficient magnesium intake or increased excretion through the kidneys. If symptoms of a magnesium deficiency become noticeable, pregnant women should speak to their gynecologist.

What is the effect of magnesium in early pregnancy?

In some cases, it may make sense to take magnesium as a preventive measure in early pregnancy. There is evidence that magnesium intake can help protect against premature rupture of membranes or so-called preeclampsia (EPH gestosis). This was formerly known as pregnancy poisoning.

Magnesium is even important for preventing premature birth. Because a deficiency not only leads to calf cramps, all muscles of the body can be affected – including the uterus. If she can no longer relax because the deficiency is not remedied, this may lead to permanent cramps that can trigger premature labor.

If you want to have children, you can take magnesium before you become pregnant to bring the blood level to the recommended level. At the latest in early pregnancy, magnesium can then be taken as a preventive measure to prevent a deficiency from developing.

Which magnesium should women take during pregnancy?

Magnesium is best absorbed during pregnancy in its natural form through food. Nuts, seeds, and legumes contain a particularly large amount of magnesium, for example:

  • Wheat bran (490 milligrams per 100 grams)
  • Sunflower seeds (420 milligrams per 100 grams) and
  • Soybeans (220 milligrams per 100 grams)

As a dietary supplement, magnesium can be taken during pregnancy after consultation with the doctor in the form of effervescent tablets, capsules, tablets, or granules.

Women should always discuss the dosage and type of magnesium supplements with their doctor. Because with combination preparations, attention must be paid to the other components that are not always suitable for pregnant women. Overdosing can also cause side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. A very high amount of magnesium during pregnancy can also impede contractions.

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Written by Micah Stanley

Hi, I'm Micah. I am a creative Expert Freelance Dietitian Nutritionist with years of experience in counseling, recipe creation, nutrition, and content writing, product development.

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