Can Milk Enhance Pregnancy Health? What Experts Recommend

Strengthens Bones:
During pregnancy, an adequate amount of calcium needs to be taken to fulfill the essential minerals in the fetus. Pregnant women aged 19 years and above need 1000 mg calcium in a day and pregnant women below 19 years need 1300 mg calcium. One cup of fat-free milk contains 302 mg calcium. Therefore, it is advisable to drink 3 to 4 cups of milk in a day to fulfill the daily calcium requirement.

Protein For Fetal Development:
Protein strengthens the uterus and improves blood supply and provides nutrition to the baby and mother's breast tissue. Pregnant women who do not consume adequate amounts of protein during pregnancy are at risk of their baby having lower than normal weight at birth.

During pregnancy, pregnant women need 65 grams of protein per day. One cup of milk contains 8.22 grams of protein. If you drink three cups of milk a day during pregnancy, then one-third of the required amount of protein in your body is fulfilled.

Vitamin D Protects The Newborn From Rickets:
Taking vitamin D during pregnancy reduces the risk of rickets and low birth weight in the baby. Pregnant women need 10 micrograms of vitamin D daily during pregnancy. 3 to 4 micrograms of vitamin D is found in one cup of milk, so drinking 3 cups of milk daily can fulfill the vitamin requirement in pregnant women.

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Eczema:
According to a medical study, some foods can worsen the condition of eczema, which also includes milk and dairy products. However, a 2018 study found that adding milk and probiotics to the diet of pregnant and breastfeeding women reduces the risk of eczema and other food allergies in the baby.

• Keep the ratio of milk and water at 2:1 and use it to make milkshakes and tea.
• Drink warm milk in small sips. Don't make the mistake of drinking hot milk in a hurry.
• Do not drink milk immediately after eating.
• A pregnant woman should drink about 3 cups of milk a day. They should especially consume low-fat or non-fat milk.
• Drinking milk during pregnancy is generally beneficial, but as we told you, drinking hot milk should be avoided as it can harm the baby.

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Drinking milk during pregnancy is very beneficial for both mother and baby. Milk is a major source of calcium, which helps in the development of the baby's bones and teeth. It also contains protein and vitamin D, which keeps the muscles and immune system of the pregnant woman strong. The potassium and phosphorus present in milk are helpful in keeping blood pressure balanced during pregnancy. It keeps the mother hydrated and reduces problems like acidity. Drinking 2-3 glasses of milk a day can be a part of a balanced diet, but it should be included in your routine as per the doctor's advice.