A review of calcium supplementation trials and pre-eclampsia: A review of 13 trials (n=15,730 women) found supplementation with 1 g or more of calcium per day helped prevent pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy), preterm birth and lowered the risk of woman dying or having serious problems related to pre-eclampsia. Compared to placebo, calcium supplementation during pregnancy was associated with an average reduction risk of pre-eclampsia by 55%, with women at high-risk and low starting calcium consumption reporting a greater reduction (78% and 64%, respectively). Risk of premature birth was also reduced by 24% (and 55% in women at high-risk of pre-eclampsia) in the calcium supplemented group compared to placebo. Women were also less likely to die or have serious problems due to pre-eclampsia (20% reduced risk). (17)
