Magnesium isn’t only safe in pregnancy; it is necessary for the health of mother and baby. Many pregnant women aren’t getting enough magnesium, and this can have serious repercussions.

More than 300 enzymes in your body require magnesium for their function. It is an essential mineral required for the regulation of body temperature, protein synthesis and for the health of nerves and muscles. Many women don’t get enough magnesium in their diet. This can lead to symptoms such as insomnia, muscle twitching, nausea, fatigue and weakness. People who are magnesium deficient don’t handle stress as well and are more prone to anxiety.

When a woman becomes pregnant, her magnesium requirement is increased. Magnesium helps the function of insulin in the body, therefore is required for a healthy blood sugar level. Not getting enough while pregnant raises the risk of gestational diabetes and excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Magnesium supplementation during pregnancy may be able to improve fetal growth and reduce the risk of low birth weight. It is also wonderful for reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia.

Many women suffer with a difficult pregnancy marred by health complications, which could be avoided if they received an optimal magnesium level. The recommended daily intake of magnesium for adult women is 320mg. This shoots up to 400mg during pregnancy. Nausea and strong food aversions typically alter a woman’s diet in a way that leaves her magnesium deficient. Magnesium is normally found in foods such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and meat. For optimal health, research shows taking a magnesium supplement is desirable.

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