Edema is a condition which normally takes place during pregnancy. It is the condition in which the ankles, feet, legs and hands get swollen up. The swelling occurs because the body retains water, which is the result of various changes in the body of the women.

As the baby grows the uterus enlarges putting the pressure on the blood vessels of the legs and pelvis. This results in the slow down of blood circulation and allowing the blood to accumulate in the lower portion of the body.

Causes Of Edema During Pregnancy:
Some of the causes of Edema are:

• The amount of fluid in body doubles to support the growth of the baby.
• Uterus enlarges pressing the pelvis and the veins of legs which results in swelling.
• The level progesterone increases during pregnancy, as the result of which kidney retain sodium in large quantity. The increased amount of sodium levels in body results in holding of water in excess amount.
• Sitting or standing for long periods
• Certain medications.

Supplements To Help Edema During Pregnancy:
The supplements which will help edema during pregnancy are:

• The intake of diet must have low salt and high protein content in it.
• The use of diuretics must include potassium in it.
• Vitamin B thiamine can be supplemented in 200 mg per day and vitamin B6 in quantity of 50 – 100 mg per day.
• Vitamin C 250 -500 mg per day, vitamin E 400 -800 IU per day and coenzymes Q10 50 – 100 mg two times each day.
• Potassium aspartate 20 mg per day.
• Magnesium 200 mg 2 -3 times per day and calcium 1000 mg per day.