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1: Chlorella
and spirulina
are excellent sources of carotenes, chlorophyll, and other
antioxidants. Studies show that they can help eliminate heavy
metals and toxins from the body, thus reducing the fetus' exposure
to these poisons.
2: DHA
(docosahexaenoic acid)
from algae or concentrated fish oil supplements helps the baby
develop a normal brain and retina. A pregnant woman can lose as
much as 50 percent of the DHA from her brain—a major
contributor to postpartum depression. Mothers with low levels of
DHA also are more likely to deliver prematurely.
3: Folic acid
supplementation
during pregnancy has been shown to prevent neural-tube birth
defects and acute childhood leukemia. It may also help prevent
miscarriage. In the mother, folate helps prevent anemia and
supports emotional health.
4: Probiotics
(lactobacillus, acidophilus, and bifidobacteria)
help maintain good immune function to prevent respiratory,
gastrointestinal, and vaginal infections—reducing the risk of
complications during delivery. When pregnant mothers take these
"healthy bacteria," their children are less likely to develop
allergies.
5: Vitamin
D
supports normal fetal growth, including bone, neurologic, and
immune system development. Supplementation may help prevent the
child from getting diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
Source: Robert Rountree,
MD, coauthor of A Natural Guide to Pregnancy and Postpartum
Health (Avery, 2003).
Note: Please consult your health care practitioner
for individual doses and safety information.
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