Is it safe to consume spirulina during pregnancy?

There is currently a lack of sufficient research when it comes to the health benefits and risks associated with the intake of spirulina by pregnant women. It is thus best to consult your doctor who will be the best person to advice over the consumption of spirulina during pregnancy.

What is spirulina?

Spirulina is a super food that is packed with lots of nutrients. Spirulina is a blue-green algae and is called cyanobacterium. These have the ability to perform photosynthesis and produce energy with the help of sunlight and water just like green plants.

Potential health benefits of spirulina during pregnancy

• It is full of nutrients which are absorbed by the human body. As compared to the nutrients which are artificially synthesized, the nutrients in spirulina are biosynthesized.
• It can potentially help to improve hemoglobin levels in the body and thus prevent fatigue and anemia during pregnancy.
• The essential fatty acids present in spirulina promote hormonal balance and regulate blood pressure. Spirulina can also possibly help to promote the growth of baby’s brain. It also prevents toxins from collecting in the body.
• It can help in lowering cholesterol levels. Spirulina can potentially help to combat gestational diabetes.

Risks of consuming spirulina during pregnancy

• Spirulina could be contaminated with heavy metals and mercury and also harmful bacteria which could be fatal for the pregnancy.
• It can also cause difficulty in breathing, inflammation of pancreas, nerve damage, and kidney failure.
• Spirulina can also cause excessive thirst, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and weakness.
• If spirulina is consumed by women who suffer from autoimmune diseases, the symptoms could be worsened.
• It is always best to seek your doctor’s opinion to decide if you should be consuming spirulina and in what amounts.