The list of health benefits from chlorella almost sounds too good to be true—but I can attest that it lives up to the hype! Chlorella is a deeply rich green algae and an absolute superfood. I personally take it always, but it’s especially powerful during the perinatal period.
Here’s why:
1. Natural Detoxifier
Let’s be real—it’s 2024, and we live in a toxic stew. Chemicals and toxins are literally everywhere (air, water, food, clothes, everyday products). Those toxins can negatively affect our health and the development of our growing babies in countless ways. Studies have found that moms who took chlorella during pregnancy had fewer toxins found in their fetal cord blood. This means a healthier baby, with significantly better neurodevelopment, thyroid, and immune function.
2. Rich in Iron
Many women struggle with low iron levels (anemia) during pregnancy, but iron supplements can cause unpleasant side effects like constipation, nausea, and vomiting (and who needs more of that while pregnant?!). Chlorella is a natural way to boost iron levels without those issues.
3. A Complete Protein
Chlorella contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. It supports building a healthy baby and helps with tissue recovery postpartum.
4. Improves the Quality of Breast Milk
Women who take chlorella while breastfeeding have been found to produce cleaner, more nutrient-dense milk with better immune support for their babies! Chlorella filters dioxins (environmental toxins) from breast milk. As mentioned above, fewer chemicals entering the system mean a healthier baby. Turn your breast milk into an even stronger superfood by taking chlorella.
5. Boosts Energy
Thanks to chlorella’s iron and B vitamin content, it can help reduce fatigue and improve energy levels during pregnancy and postpartum. For those of us who have been through this period, we know all the extra energy is more than welcome!
6. Supports Digestion
Pregnancy and postpartum often come with digestive issues, particularly constipation. After having a baby, it's hard enough to handle basic bodily functions, let alone if you're constipated! Chlorella's fiber content supports healthy digestion and gut flora, making elimination easier. Plus, a healthy gut doesn't just mean better digestion; it can also improve mental health through the gut-brain connection, as this is where 'happy hormones' (serotonin and dopamine) are produced.
7. Boosts Immunity
Chlorella increases IgA levels in the body, which helps protect against infections (especially respiratory, gut, and urogenital). These benefits pass through to breast milk, giving both mom and baby added protection.
8. Prevention of Postpartum Hemorrhage
The rich vitamin K content in chlorella makes it a great tool for prevention of excessive postpartum bleeding. *I would also recommend not taking omegas for the month leading up to birth as to prevent the likelihood of this happening- because it can be truly scary.
Taking chlorella is a small, simple step that makes a huge difference. While taking care of ourselves can seem impossible at times during this journey, I encourage you to prioritize it. Both you and your baby will benefit. A healthier, more nourished mom makes for a better mom—and everyone wins.
As always, quality matters! The good news is, we did all the legwork to find the best source for clean, organic and bioavailable chlorella: Buy yours here!
All the health + love, mamas!
-Dr. Kristyn Silver-Brook, D.C.
Chiropractor for Women + Mamas
****Disclaimer: While these recommendations are shared with love and care, always trust your intuition and listen to your body when choosing any food, supplement, or medication. It’s important to consult with your trusted healers or healthcare providers to ensure what’s best for your unique journey. The information provided here is for inspiration and is not intended as medical advice.