Chlorella is a type of blue-green algae that is often taken in supplements to provide nutrients. Some people believe that it can also prevent cancer and remove potentially harmful substances from the body. Preliminary evidence suggests that taking chlorella during pregnancy can help prevent some health problems, such as anemia and edema, but more research needs to be done on the effectiveness and safety of this supplements. Don't take chlorella without first consulting your doctor, especially if you're pregnant.
What is Chlorella?
Pregnant women may take chlorella supplements as a way to boost their health and overall well-being. Chlorella contains large amounts of chlorophyll. According to a 2001 review published in "Alternative Therapies," every kilogram of chlorella contains 28.9 grams of chlorophyll. Chlorella also contains proteins with the all of the naturally occurring amino acids, and it also contains significant amounts of vitamins A and C, as well as folic acid, vitamin B-12, calcium, zinc, iron and other vitamins and minerals.
Effects of Pregnancy
Pregnant women have an increased risk of developing several health problems, including anemia, protein in the urine and the accumulation of fluid in the body, also known as edema. The nutrients present in chlorella may be able to help prevent some of these problems. A 2009 article in "Plant Foods for Human Nutrition" found that pregnant women who consumed chlorella supplements were less likely to suffer from anemia, edema and protein in the urine.
Chlorella and Dioxins
Chlorella may also be able to protect your baby from dangerous chemicals known as dioxins. Dioxins are toxins that are present in the environment and accumulate in the food chain, ultimately winding up in the human body. A 2007 study in the "Journal of Medicinal Food" found that giving chlorella to pregnant women reduced the dioxin levels in their breast milk after pregnancy, suggesting that this supplement can help improve the health of the baby.
Considerations
Although there is no evidence that chlorella is dangerous for human consumption, the safety of this supplement has not been adequately tested. You must be especially careful about what supplements you take while pregnant, because your body is under a lot of stress during pregnancy and supplements can harm both you and your baby. Talk to your doctor before taking chlorella supplements.
