Is barley grass safe during pregnancy?
Written by
Leilani Ibeh
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Barley grass contains nutrients beneficial for pregnant women, but it should be taken into consideration. The green superfood is a rich source of folate, iron, and essential vitamins important for growth and development. Your growing baby requires nutrients for proper/healthy growth. Medical advice gives you the go-ahead to use or not.
Barley grass contains folate to support the important growth and development of the fetus. This B vitamin helps reduce the risk of conditions like spina bifida, which can result from neural tube defects. When your baby has enough folate, their brain and spinal cord develop normally. The iron concentration helps to provide adequate blood volume to you and your baby.
Folate Benefits
- Essential for neural tube formation in first trimester
- Reduces risk of birth defects by significant percentage
- Supports placental development and function
Iron Support
- Prevents maternal anemia and fatigue
- Supports 50% increase in blood volume
- Enhances oxygen transport to developing fetus
Additional Nutrients
- Calcium for fetal bone mineralization
- Magnesium reduces pregnancy-related leg cramps
- Vitamin C boosts iron absorption efficiency
Check with your obstetrician before taking barley grass supplements. Different brands have different quality. Some products may have contaminants, including heavy metals. Your doctor assesses possible interactions with your prenatal vitamins. Monitoring by a physician ensures the best safety.
If you decide to use barley grass powder, select one that's certified organic, as this should alleviate concerns about pesticide exposure. Start with a small amount, such as a half teaspoon daily, and closely observe how your body responds. If you experience any negative side effects, discontinue use immediately.
Timing is crucial when using barley grass during pregnancy. If taking prenatal vitamins, it's often better to consume them in the morning. Don't take it in the evenings if you're experiencing nausea. Be sure always to take barley grass with enough water. Additionally, taking barley grass every day is more important than taking a large amount.
Please note that barley grass is meant to complement your prenatal care, not substitute it. Continue taking the prenatal vitamins as advised. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet from various sources and regular check-ups will keep you informed of your baby's progress. This is a multifaceted approach to support a healthy pregnancy.
Read the full article: 10 Amazing Benefits Barley Grass
