Why is calcium important?

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. Almost all of the calcium in the body is found in the skeleton - more than 98% in fact. Therefore, a calcium-rich diet is very important in the development of your infant’s bones and in the maintenance of your own bones.

Calcium is also important in the building and maintenance of teeth and it plays a key role in our cells. In our cells it is involved in many processes, such as in the contraction of our muscles and in the transmission of signals in nerves.

When you are pregnant, your calcium needs increase from 800mg a day to 1100mg a day. That’s an extra 300mg calcium a day (equivalent to 1 serve of a calcium-rich food). Pregnant women need to eat around 4 serves of calcium-rich foods every day to meet their needs.

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Pregnancy

Good nutrition during this wonderful period is important for both mother and growing foetus. Find out more.

Nutrition Research

The Nestlé company has maintained a commitment to nutrition and research. Find out more.