Can I take spirulina while trying to conceive? Yes, Spirulina diets have vitamins with antioxidant properties [1], that may help improve your fertility and chance of pregnancy.
The antioxidant can help protect eggs and sperm cells from oxidative damage [2], as well as aid DNA synthesis and repair. It may as well support baby development [3, 4] due to its vitamins C and E, and carotenoids content [FDC].
There is more to that, essential nutrients that support fertility and pregnancy are found in spirulina such as protein, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Iron, Niacin, Copper, and more [5, 6].
Does Spirulina Diets Increase Fertility?
Intake of spirulina diets may boost fertility and pregnancy outcomes by preventing free radicals from damaging the sperm cells and egg that are necessary for pregnancy to occur. This is attributed to its antioxidant properties.
This article explores how the intake of spirulina can affect fertility and pregnancy. We shall equally discuss the benefits and risks of taking it during pregnancy. Before that, here is a brief intro about this algae.
PICKS: Can You Get Pregnant Without a Period? Facts to know
What is Spirulina
Spirulina, an FDA-approved functional food is a type of blue-green algae that has been linked to several health benefits [7], including improved fertility and pregnancy outcomes. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which are essential for fertility and a healthy pregnancy.
Several studies have also commended the therapeutic effect of spirulina diets on the prevention of certain chronic diseases which can be traced to its rich nutritional value.
Can say that spirulina diets are nutrient-dense food that is low in fat and cholesterol. It is a good source of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, including the essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids [8].
Benefits of Spirulina for Fertility
Some of the potential benefits of spirulina for fertility include:
Improves egg quality
Spirulina is a good source of antioxidants [9], which can help protect eggs from damage. It is also a good source of folate, which is essential for DNA synthesis and repair.
A study on mice has promising evidence that Spirulina diets may be a useful treatment for improving the reproductive performance of diabetic mice. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine their safety and efficacy in humans [10].
Spirulina diets are rich in phycocyanin, a compound that can scavenge free radicals, and halt the production of inflammation markers, which are attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties [11].
May Increase sperm motility
Spirulina has been shown to increase sperm motility, which is the ability of sperm to swim. This can help improve the chances of conception [12, 13].
Help balance hormones
Spirulina may help regulate hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which are important for ovulation and fertility [14].
May boost sexual performance
Spirulina diets are thought to be energy boosters suggesting that they may improve strength and power performance, even in highly trained athletes. Most studies have shown that spirulina improves antioxidant status, prevents exercise-induced damage to cells and tissues, and accelerates recovery [15, 16].
These findings suggest that spirulina supplementation may be beneficial for energy-consumption activities such as sexual intercourse, athletes, and heavy lifting despite some methodological differences between studies [17].
YOU MAY LIKE:
- Cure For Erectile Dysfunction: 8 Ways to Boost Male Function
- 5 Excellent Minerals and Vitamins for erectile strength
Dietary Spirulina pregnancy benefits
May Improve Outcome Pregnancy
One animal study conducted on pregnant rat models noted that the Spirulina diet has a beneficial impact and may be a good dietary supplement during pregnancy [18].
Prevent Iron Deficiency During Pregnancy
Another study on rats to determine the effect of iron minerals in spirulina on the hematological status of rats during pregnancy and lactation has also suggested that the Spirulina diet may effectively prevent anemia and improve the iron status of pregnant rats as well as during lactation [19, 20, 21].
Some scientific studies have also suggested that spirulina diets may prevent anemia [26, 23, 24]. However, The National Institutes of Health (NIH) have also cautioned that spirulina supplements, pills, or tablets may lower iron absorption, hence it should be taken moderately [25].
PICKS: 10 Emerging scent leaf health benefits, fertility Impacts & side effects
Lowers Risk Of Chronic Diseases during pregnancy
Spirulina diet has therapeutic benefits and may help lower the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycerolemia, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, cancer, and viral infections during pregnancy. Its cardiovascular benefits are primarily due to its hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities [26].
Spirulina is generally safe for human consumption, but it is important to buy from a reputable source with a good quality control system to avoid contamination.
Spirulina pregnancy dosage
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that adults take no more than 19 grams of spirulina per day for a maximum of 2 months, and no more than 10 grams per day for a maximum of 6 months. This is based on the results of clinical trials that have shown spirulina to be safe at these doses [25].
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate spirulina, so it is important to choose a product from a reputable source that has been tested for purity. It is also important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed.
If you are pregnant and considering taking spirulina, talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if spirulina is right for you and recommend a safe dosage.
Spirulina pregnancy side effects
Intake of Spirulina diets during pregnancy can be beneficial as it may help prevent anemia, Cell DNA synthesis, and lower blood pressure, but can increase the risk of contamination with toxins and also cause side effects in some people, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
However, Spirulina pregnancy side effects have not been fully studied, can there is not enough research to say for sure whether spirulina is safe for pregnant women. Some experts recommend avoiding spirulina during pregnancy due to the potential risk of contamination with toxins or heavy metals [27].
If you are considering taking spirulina to improve your fertility or pregnancy, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if spirulina is right for you and can advise you on the best dosage.
JC is passionate about finding the impact of foods (feeding habits) on human fertility and reproductive health and a way to improve fertility.
