A newly married patient comes to the clinic suspecting that she is pregnant. The physician confirmed her pregnancy with an ultrasound. The nurse advises her to take calcium for her bones and for her unborn baby. What vitamin should also be taken to increase calcium absorption?

Explanation

•Vitamin D increases calcium absorption in the GI tract.

•The recommended amount of calcium during pregnancy is 1,200 to 1,500 mg. Women under age 24 should aim for the higher end.

•The skeleton and teeth constitute a major portion of the fetus. Initial calcification of the teeth occurs around 14 weeks.. Bones begin to calcify at 12 weeks. To supply adequate calcium and phosphorous for bone formation, pregnant women need to eat food high in calcium and vitamin D.

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