But there are a few articles that touch on the benefits and the risks that we will discuss throughout this article. Studies in mice are promising, as they tend to show positive effects of spirulina during pregnancy. Another study done in sub-Saharan African women who were pregnant saw an improvement in anemia status when they consumed spirulina in the third trimester of their pregnancies 7. They actually found that taking spirulina was more effective than taking an iron and folic acid supplement.
In a separate study with rats in , the investigators found a higher iron storage level than that of the control group 8. The evidence that is available is promising. But most of the studies have been done in mice, with few being completed in humans, especially pregnant women. Of the studies that were promising, it seems that spirulina was mostly given or taken during the third trimester of pregnancy, which produces the least severe potential birth defects. All data provided by the USDA nutrient database.
The main component of spirulina is phycocyanin , which also gives spirulina its blue-green color. Phycocyanin is an antioxidant that helps fight free-radicals and inhibits inflammation.
Other researchers suggest spirulina can protect against oxidative stress and boost our immune system to help prevent many chronic health conditions 9 , 4. Phycocyanin also contributes to red blood cell production, which makes it popular among research studies to investigate the effects of spirulina and phycocyanins on the capabilities of algae during pregnancy and iron level changes.
Your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, which carries oxygenated cells throughout your body. When you are pregnant, you need more iron to accommodate your growing baby, and your growing body If you do not consume enough iron, then you could be at risk for developing iron-deficiency anemia. When you have iron-deficiency anemia, you may notice you are fatigued and feel weaker than usual. You may also experience cold hands and feet and pale skin. Severe anemia has the potential to cause premature birth, low birth weight, and postpartum depression Iron can be found in meat, like chicken and beef.
Green spirulina is made from the entire algae whereas the blue pigment is isolated in blue spirulina. Two colors, but the same organism of origin. Because the two types are made from the same blue-green algae their nutrition and safety remain the same as well source: Doug Cook, RD. To ensure safety, it is best to only use dietary supplements from reputable companies and those that undergo third-party quality testing.
Not only is spirulina a rich protein source, but the algae also contains a good amount of vitamins B1 and B2, as well as copper and iron Source: NutritionData. Iron is especially important during pregnancy, as it is needed for making more blood to help support a growing baby source: UT Southwestern Medical Center. For mothers-to-be experiencing chronic fatigue, there is some evidence to show that spirulina increases lactobacillus, a healthy gut bacteria.
The lactobacillus then goes on to produce vitamin B6, which is critical for energy sources: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine , Frontiers in Nutrition. If you do choose to incorporate spirulina into your routine, the easiest and arguably the most popular way is to blend a tablespoon or so into a smoothie. Other ways to use spirulina include mixed into energy bites or stirred into a glass of juice source: Bon Appetit. Spirulina has been shown to increase the time it takes blood to clot Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta.
This means, if you accidentally cut your finger in the kitchen, it would take longer for the cut to stop bleeding. For women who take a blood thinner, or anticoagulant, as directed by the medical provider, also taking spirulina may lead to excessive bleeding source: Medline. The protein found in Hawaiian Spirulina is a complete protein, containing all essential and non-essential amino acids.
A 3-gram serving just a teaspoon of Hawaiian Spirulina provides 2 grams of protein. Iron deficiency is common in pregnancy, especially in the later half. In order for the body to support more blood production, iron intake needs to be increased since it is a key component in blood composition. Vitamins A, C and E are also extremely important as they prevent birth defects. It is worth remembering that these vitamins and minerals are important not only in the nutrition of pregnant women.
Spirulina helps the body rebuild after delivery and the new mom can regain her strength faster. You know why you should use spirulina. Now I let me tell you how you can use it! You can add it to lots of different dishes, such as smoothies, puddings, millet porridge or simply water, just to name a few.
You can find great recipes with spirulina in my blog: spaghetti with green pesto , chinese style noodles or bilberry pudding. Athlete and nutrition specialist. Multiple medalist of the national in traditional karate in European and World Championships. Author of workout plans and books on healthy lifestyle that have helped her motivate over a million of people to change their lives for the better. CEO of Foods by Ann.
Co-founder of Baby by Ann. Wife of footballer Robert Lewandowski, the captain of the Poland national football team and Bayern Munich player. Read more ». Are you ready to begin a tasty adventure with my nutrition philosophy? Healthy diet can be easy and fun. Spring is a capricious lady, but sometimes it's graciously giving us the sun, and sometimes even hot days.
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