Pregnant? Then magnesium is particularly important
Alarm signal calf cramps. Pregnant women are often rudely awakened by sudden calf cramps. The reason is often a lack of magnesium. Many mothers-to-be cannot cover their increased magnesium requirement with their normal diet – during pregnancy, more magnesium is excreted via the urine due to hormonal changes. As there could be other causes behind aching legs, pregnant women should consult their gynaecologist to clarify such complaints.
Intestinal obstruction. The intestinal muscles often slacken during pregnancy. The culprit for sluggish bowels is the increased release of the hormones oestrogen and gestagen. Magnesium can accelerate digestion in a tolerable way. Moreover, a healthy diet with plenty of roughage and sufficient liquids as well as regular exercise can help.
Premature contractions. A further problem during pregnancy is premature contractions. Possible causes are magnesium deficiency amongst others. Pregnant women should therefore pay attention to their magnesium intake and ask their gynaecologist if additional magnesium is advisable.
The baby also needs magnesium. When breastfeeding, magnesium requirement increases again as the mother passes on a large portion of the mineral to her child via the breast milk. And this is for a good reason: magnesium namely supports the baby’s bone building and the healthy development of its organs.
Pregnancy risk factors for mother and child Keeping the balance during pregnancy Download: brochure for pregnant and breastfeeding women