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Pregnancy

      11 weeks pregnant

      Passion Fruit Salad

      11 weeks pregnant

      Ready to grow

      When you are 11 weeks pregnant your baby is set for a rapid phase of growth. A healthy intake of calcium will support their bones as they lengthen and strengthen. Learn how this pregnancy essential aids development in other ways, and which foods to eat for a reliable supply.

      Pregnancy Week 11

      Your baby's development at 11 weeks

      Preparing to grow

      Measuring between 4 and 5cm by the time you’re 11 weeks pregnant, your baby is still very small. However, they’re growing and developing rapidly, with all of the bones of the face now in place, fingers and toes separating from their webbed beginnings and ear buds starting to take on a more familiar ear shape.

      Internally, their brain, lungs, liver and kidneys have formed by 11 weeks, but the various body systems will continue to develop throughout pregnancy.

      Although your baby has already been making jerky movements for some time, you’re unlikely to feel any kicks until around 17–18 weeks, or later if this is your first pregnancy.

      Calcium: Building strong bones and teeth for life

      Calcium is essential for the normal development of your baby’s bones: it supports the health of your own bones and teeth too.

      Most easily absorbed from milk sources, calcium has several other important roles:

      • It regulates muscle contractions, including your baby's heartbeat
      • It helps blood clot normally
      • It contributes to the healthy functioning of muscle tissue and nerves

      The recommended daily amount during pregnancy is 1200mg per day, all of which should be obtainable from a normal, balanced diet.

      Your calcium requirements increase from 800mg a day to 1200mg a day, but it possible to reach it through food alone

      Next steps

      Ensure a healthy calcium intake during week 11 of pregnancy by including the following foods in your diet:

      • Dairy products, including pasteurised milk, cheese and yogurt
      • Some nuts and seeds, especially almonds and sesame seeds
      • Beans and pulses
      • Figs
      • Spinach
      • Tofu
      • Calcium-fortified breakfast cereals and white bread
      • Calcium-fortified drinks such as some soya milks
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      Your baby, this week

      Discover the science behind your baby's developments, week-by-week

      Join now for free

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