Spirulina during pregnancy: superfluous and easily replaceable

2022-09-10 00:07:40 By : Ms. Monica Wang

Superfoods are very popular - and pregnant women need a lot of high-quality substances for the development of the baby.Sounds like a "match made in heaven" - but what about spirulina during pregnancy?The judgment of nutrition experts is sobering: the blue-green algae does not live up to its reputation as a miracle cure for a strong immune system.In short: This dietary supplement is a waste of money - even outside of pregnancy.Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria, microscopic organisms that occur naturally in all types of water.Often referred to as blue-green algae, spirulina has been used as a dietary supplement in many countries for years.Spirulina can be taken in tablet form or mixed into food in powder form.Let's put it this way: Spirulina is not harmful during pregnancy - the question is rather whether it makes sense to take it.At first glance, spirulina scores with a large number of nutrients that can have a positive effect on general health.However, the effectiveness of spirulina in humans has not yet been scientifically clarified.Many of the nutrients it contains are also much easier – and cheaper – to take in through normal foods.We took a closer look at the most important advantages of spirulina:Conclusion: With a balanced diet, it is not at all necessary to take spirulina during pregnancy.Anyone who still swears by it should always consult their gynecologist to keep the combination of necessary additives balanced.If spirulina is cultivated in contaminated water, the blue-green algae can be contaminated with microcystins (toxins) and heavy metals such as mercury - which they bind to themselves.These substances can damage a developing baby's nervous system and brain.In addition, microcystins are capable of causing liver damage.Unborn babies are more at risk from the dangers of possible spirulina contamination than adults.For this reason alone, it is advisable not to consume spirulina during pregnancy.You can get more tips on the topic of "nutrition during pregnancy" here >>>Do you already know all the foods that are actually taboo during pregnancy?Our free guide 125 Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy enlightens you.And if you would like to exchange ideas with other moms, join our closed Facebook group: "We are real moms"This text has been checked for content by nutritionist Lydia Wilkens.The graduate ecotrophologist has 14 years of experience in the field of nutrition communication and advice.As a mother of two, one of her areas of focus is on essenZ's nutrition team, Dr.Heike Niemeier in Hamburg and the School of Food in nutritional counseling and therapy for families and children.She also carries out nutritional projects for children, parents and multipliers in daycare centers and schools.As an expert on all aspects of maternal and child nutrition, she supports the editors of Echte Mamas with practical expertise.I am from the Rhineland but have been living in exile in Hamburg for many years.With my daughter I am currently daring exciting expeditions into the teenage realm, always with enough humor in my luggage.If my patience fails, I prefer to stay near the coast, the further north the better.