Is it safe to take spirulina while breastfeeding?

The Safety of Spirulina During Breastfeeding
As more mothers seek to enhance their diets with nutritional supplements, the question of whether spirulina is safe during breastfeeding has gained attention. Spirulina, a blue-green algae rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, is often touted for its health benefits. However, its use during lactation is not without controversy.
Nutritional Benefits and Risks
Spirulina is packed with essential nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin E, chlorophyll, beta-carotene, and iron, making it an appealing option for those looking to boost their nutritional intake. However, while these nutrients can be beneficial, the consumption of spirulina during breastfeeding can also pose risks. Experts caution that spirulina may contain harmful bacteria or toxins, particularly if sourced from contaminated waters. This concern is particularly relevant for breastfeeding mothers, as any toxins ingested could potentially affect the infant.
Lack of Research on Lactation
Currently, there is a significant lack of research specifically addressing the effects of spirulina on breastfeeding mothers and their infants. According to the Lactation Database, there are no established lactation-related uses for spirulina, and no data exist on the excretion of its components in breast milk. This absence of evidence leaves many healthcare providers hesitant to recommend spirulina for nursing mothers.
Recommendations from Health Experts
Health professionals generally advise caution. While spirulina is considered nontoxic in low doses, many experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers avoid it altogether, especially those with autoimmune conditions such as lupus or multiple sclerosis, as spirulina may exacerbate symptoms. The consensus among various sources is that while spirulina can be safe for most people when used short-term, its safety during breastfeeding remains uncertain.
Conclusion
In summary, while spirulina offers a wealth of nutrients, its safety during breastfeeding is not guaranteed. The potential risks, coupled with the lack of definitive research, suggest that nursing mothers should approach spirulina with caution. Consulting with a healthcare provider before introducing any new supplement into a breastfeeding diet is always advisable to ensure the health and safety of both mother and child.

Who should avoid spirulina?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking spirulina. People with a metabolic condition called phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid taking spirulina. People with this rare condition cannot metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine. Spirulina is rich in all amino acids, including phenylalanine.

What happens to your body when you start taking spirulina?

Spirulina increases nitric oxide production in your body as well, which helps your blood vessels relax. Studies show that this can reduce your blood pressure, lowering your heart disease risk. The anti-inflammatory effect of spirulina’s antioxidants may help you with allergies caused by pollen, animal hair, and dust.

What not to take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Why no ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

What are the side effects of spirulina in pregnancy?

Risks and side effects of spirulina
This is due to the potential risk of spirulina being contaminated with microcystins (toxins) and heavy metals such as mercury. “Heavy metals like mercury can damage a developing baby’s nervous system and brain, and microcystins can cause liver damage,” Pitts says.

Can a breastfeeding mother eat spirulina?

Discussion. A Spirulina diet given to lactating mothers can protect against neuroinflammation and decreased anti-oxidant defence in brain of suckling pups subjected to peripheral inflammation, possibly via decreased activation of p38 and high levels of the anti-oxidant miRNA 146a.

Is spirulina good for babies?

In summary, based on the findings of the present study, we conclude that fortification of complementary food with spirulina during the first 2 years of life had long-term beneficial effects on child development.

Is spirulina safe pregnancy?

In general, spirulina is considered safe. That said, the specific risks and side effects during pregnancy are unknown.