Breastfeeding and spirulina: are they compatible?

Actually, There is no full agreement on the compatibility between breastfeeding and spirulina. There are a large number of professionals who see this combination as positive or who do not consider it to have greater effects. For others, however, there could be some incompatibility.

Remember that spirulina is an algae that belongs to the genus Arthrospira and that, for a while here, it is promoted as a nutritional supplement with exceptional properties. It is noted that it makes great nutritional contributions and serves as a complement against some diseases.

Spirulina is available in the market in the form of dragees or tablets. Also in liquid and powder presentation. Generally, it is marketed by health food stores and there is no published study that warns of side effects or risky interactions with this substance.

Spirulina and its properties

Although a good group of doctors do not see exceptional properties in spirulina, the truth is that the consumption of this substance has become popular in a significant way. In saying of their defenders, It is believed to have properties for conditions such as the following:

• The nutriCion. Apparently, it has a high amount of nutrients that serve as an ideal complement to food.
• The obesity. Spirulina would reduce body fat, reduce appetite and reduce blood cholesterol levels, as observed in this study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine.
• The aging. Coinciding with a publication in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which decreases aging.
• Immune system. According to an investigation published in Archives of Toxicology, spirulina increases the level of antibody production.
• Others. As an investigation collects in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Other properties that are assigned to it are the following: restorative, chronic fatigue reducer, adjuvant in allergic rhinitis, antiviral, cholesterol reducer and diabetes, among others.

Spirulina has been a source of research, as it is rich in nutrients and has shown positive effects on health.

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Breastfeeding and spirulina, arguments in favor

Proponents of this substance think that breastfeeding and spirulina are perfectly compatible. In fact, they also recommend it during pregnancy. They point out that it restores nutritional deficiencies of the mother and that contributes to the normal development of the baby.

It is ensured that spirulina protects the mother during pregnancy, because it contains 10 times more iron than common foods. This would prevent anemia. Likewise, it highlights its calcium content, a mineral that is essential in the gestation stage.

Regarding breastfeeding and spirulina, it is also suggested that they are compatible. In fact, according to popular belief, Spirulina helps provide more nutrients to the baby, through breast milk. Among other things, spirulina contains gamma-linoleic acid, which is essential for the proper brain development of the baby.

Breastfeeding and spirulina, arguments against

There is also a sector that sees an incompatibility between breastfeeding and spirulina. Some brands of spirulina they bring specifically indicated that it should not be consumed by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or by very young children. They warn about possible adverse effects.

They consider breastfeeding and spirulina incompatible. This, mainly due to the high amount of iodine that substance contains and that can alter, to a greater or lesser extent, thyroid function. However, there are no relevant studies that prove this relationship.

What a recent case reported, published in Breastfeeding Medicine, is that Spirulina supplementation in breastfeeding changed the color of the milk to a green-blue tone. However, no abnormalities were found in the composition of the milk and, after suspending the supplement, the milk returned to its normal color for the next three days.

Possible negative effects between breastfeeding and spirulina consumption are not ruled out. Therefore, it is a supplement that should be used under medical supervision.

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Conclusions

The available scientific studies do not corroborate the purported properties of spirulina. There are also no formal studies that rule them out. In this, as in other cases, It is best to consult with the doctor before regularly consuming this substance, much more during pregnancy and lactation.

Also, in the market there are many substances that are marketed as spirulina, but not all of them have the same composition. Some dietary supplements with spirulina have proven to have higher levels of arsenic. Similarly, not all presentations are equally safe and reliable. Therefore, it is also necessary to verify the quality of the supplement and purchase it in places of trust.