Why Are Sodium And Potassium So Important During Pregnancy?

We are always told that sodium is bad for us. But this is not the case during pregnancy. Sodium has a better role to play during pregnancy than just adding flavor to your favorite cheat day foods.

Sodium and potassium belong to the group of macro-minerals that the body requires in an adequate quantity especially during pregnancy. These two macro-minerals together play a role in maintaining the body fluids and the electrolyte balance in the human system.
During pregnancy as your body works for two, there’s a significant increase in body fluids that has to be maintained for smooth functioning. This is where potassium and sodium come into play!
Along with the two above functions, they also support blood pressure regulation and organ functioning in the human body.

These two macro-minerals shouldn’t be off-limits during pregnancy nor should be taken in excess. During pregnancy 2900 mg /day of potassium and 1500 mg/ day of sodium are recommended. These quantities could vary as per your health conditions and they have to be monitored at regular intervals.

It’s recommended to take these macro-minerals from natural sources. A few of the natural sources are mentioned below:

Sources for Potassium: orange, banana, wheat bran, avocado, peach, carrot, lentils, sweet potato, pear

Sources for Sodium: vegetable, milk, egg. cheese, soups, unsalted nuts, plain yogurt, ham, sausage

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