Iron and Calcium in Pregnancy: Can You Take Them Together?

Pregnancy is a period when your body requires extra care, nutrition, and attention to promote the proper development of your unborn child.

Iron and calcium are two of the most important nutrients during pregnancy. Both play crucial roles- iron helps in the production of haemoglobin and maintains the oxygen supply, whereas calcium helps in formation of teeth and bones of the baby. It also supports healthy muscle and nerve function.

But the most concerning question arises is ‘Can iron and calcium be taken together or must be consumed separately?’

Iron and its importance during pregnancy

One of the most crucial nutrients required during pregnancy is iron. Your body needs more iron as your blood volume rises to support the developing baby. Iron helps in the formation of haemoglobin; a protein found in red blood cells that transports oxygen to your baby.

Taking iron supplements for pregnancy is often recommended because dietary consumption alone may not be sufficient. Anaemia, caused by low iron levels, increases the risk of an early birth, low birth weight, and mother fatigue. Ensuring adequate iron consumption helps to prevent these complications and promotes overall maternal health.

Role of calcium during pregnancy

During pregnancy, calcium intake is equally important. Calcium is necessary for the development of your baby’s strong bones, teeth, muscles, and even heart. If your calcium intake is insufficient, the body will drain calcium from your bones to suit your baby’s needs, increasing your risk of osteoporosis later in life.

Iron and Calcium: Know their relationship

To know the relationship between iron and calcium, let’s first understand this question- ‘Is it possible to take calcium and iron together during pregnancy?’.

According to studies, calcium may obstruct the body’s ability to absorb iron. When combined with iron, calcium reduces the absorption of iron from diet or supplements. This implies that taking calcium supplements with iron supplements for pregnancy may reduce their effectiveness.

How to safely consume calcium and iron?

The following useful advice will ensure that you benefit from both nutrients without reducing their absorption:

• Consume them at different time: The easiest way to avoid taking calcium and iron at the same time is to take them at different times during pregnancy. For instance, take your calcium supplement later in the day, if you take your iron supplement in the morning, or the other way around. A 2–3-hour gap is often recommended.
• Pair with the correct foods: Vitamin C-rich foods, such as oranges, strawberries, or tomatoes, enhance the absorption of iron. Avoid taking dairy products with iron, as they are high in calcium and can hinder absorb iron in the body.
• Follow your doctor’s advice: Since every pregnancy is different, your doctor might recommend a schedule based on the results of your blood tests and your medical requirements. Always take the medication and timings as suggested by your doctor.
• Avoid taking excess supplements: Some prenatal pills already include Iron and calcium in proportionate levels. Supplementing without a doctor’s advice may be harmful.

Some common mistakes to avoid while taking iron and calcium during pregnancy

• Taking iron supplements on empty stomach– It is better to take iron supplement for pregnancy after a small meal as it can cause nausea.
• Taking iron supplements along with tea or coffee: Caffeine prevents the body from absorbing iron. Avoid taking your iron supplement with these caffeine rich beverages.
• Ignoring adverse effects: If you experience nausea, constipation or any discomfort after taking an iron supplement, consult your doctor. There are other gentle formulation that may suit you.

Trimacare: The most recommended iron-calcium supplement in India

Trimacare pregnancy supplement is India’s first multivitamin offering trimester-specific care and pregnancy needs. Trimacare pregnancy multivitamins come in three packs for each trimester, providing essential nutrients for pregnant women and their child. Trimacare 2 and Trimacare 3 prenatal tablets contain 500 mg of calcium. Calcium in Trimacare helps in bone and teeth development, muscle contraction, hormone regulation, and nerve cell functioning.

It contains Time-Release Iron, reducing gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating. Trimacare prenatal vitamins do not cause stool black and have a bowel regulator to reduce pregnancy-related constipation. Trimacare prenatal pill prevents stool blacking and supports pregnancy-related health.

Trimacare pregnancy supplement is designed based on the IFC (Iron, Folate, Calcium) model, ensuring that it provides essential nutrients crucial for a healthy pregnancy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both iron and calcium are vital nutrients that play a key role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and the proper development of your baby. While iron supports haemoglobin production and oxygen supply, calcium strengthens your baby’s bones, teeth, and muscles. However, since calcium can interfere with iron absorption, it’s important to take them at different times and pair them with the right foods for maximum benefit. Following your doctor’s advice and choosing the right prenatal supplements, such as Trimacare, can help you meet these nutritional needs safely and effectively for a smooth and healthy pregnancy journey.