What calcium supports
Calcium helps build fetal bones and teeth and supports normal muscle, nerve, blood vessel, and clotting function.
- Dairy foods are common calcium sources, but they are not the only option.
- Fortified plant milks, tofu, canned fish with bones, and greens may help depending on your diet.
- Ask for help if avoiding dairy makes your plan confusing.
Food-first rhythm
A steady routine is more useful than trying to repair the whole day at bedtime.
- Spread calcium-containing foods across meals or snacks if that fits your day.
- Check labels on fortified foods because amounts vary.
- Ask whether calcium timing matters with other supplements you take.
Supplement questions
Supplement needs vary with diet, labs, medical history, and other medications.
- Ask before adding extra calcium.
- Tell your clinician about kidney stones or other relevant history.
- Bring your prenatal vitamin label if you are unsure what it contains.
