3 minMagnesium, the versatile mineral that plays a role in various bodily processes, also makes a valuable contribution during pregnancy! In this article, we take a closer look at the dual role of magnesium: not only as a mineral, but also as an aid for expectant mothers. Want to read more?
In this article, you will learn about
- The role of magnesium during pregnancy
- Consequences of magnesium deficiency
- How magnesium can affect fertility
- How much magnesium you need when you are pregnant
- Foods rich in magnesium
The role of magnesium
Magnesium plays an important role in cell division and embryo growth. Extra magnesium during pregnancy ensures that the muscles in the uterus relax more and contract less.
It has also been shown that women with good magnesium levels not only have a lower risk of pre-eclampsia, but there are even indications that it can prevent miscarriage. In addition, the birth weight of children whose mothers had good magnesium levels is higher than that of mothers with lower magnesium levels.
Magnesium deficiency
A magnesium deficiency increases the risk of complications for both the mother and the unborn child. In addition, symptoms such as restless legs, vague abdominal cramps, calf cramps, fatigue, hard abdomen or high blood pressure can occur as a result of a magnesium deficiency. Taking magnesium during your pregnancy could help prevent a deficiency.
Does magnesium help with fertility?
Magnesium helps with fatigue and tiredness. It also plays an important role in reducing anxiety, depression and stress. We all know magnesium as an anti-stress mineral.
When you are stressed, your muscles often tense up, and magnesium helps your muscles to relax again. Prolonged stress can reduce both male and female fertility. Magnesium can help to counteract this. In addition to magnesium, there are also other vitamins and minerals that can contribute to fertility.
How much magnesium do you need when you are pregnant?
The recommended daily amount of magnesium for a pregnant woman is 300 milligrams. For women who are breastfeeding, it is 280 milligrams. An excess of magnesium can be recognised by intestinal complaints, such as diarrhoea.
Do you need extra magnesium after giving birth?
Do you suffer from a long-term magnesium deficiency? Then you are more likely to suffer from postnatal depression. In addition, people in stressful, tiring or physically demanding periods are more likely to suffer from a magnesium deficiency. If you have just given birth, this may be such a period. Magnesium can help you feel not only more energetic, but also fitter.
Which foods contain magnesium?
You can obtain magnesium from food. This includes foods such as wholemeal products, vegetables and dairy products.
Conclusion
Magnesium is an essential mineral that is important during pregnancy. It supports cell division and growth in the baby and helps to relax the uterine muscles, thereby preventing complications.
A magnesium deficiency can lead to symptoms such as fatigue and abdominal cramps, which have adverse effects on both mother and child. It is important to get enough magnesium, with the recommended daily allowance being 300 milligrams for pregnant women.
In addition, magnesium can promote fertility by reducing stress, and after childbirth, it helps prevent postnatal depression and improve energy levels. Make sure you eat magnesium-rich foods or consider taking a supplement for a healthy pregnancy and recovery.
