Is Bentonite Clay Safe During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, women tend to be more conscientious of their body and the need to live healthier. While colon cleansing using Bentonite clay is a popular trend among those wishing to rid their bodies of toxins, this practice is not something that should be exercised during pregnancy.
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Ingredients
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Bentonite clay is an organic, sedimentary clay that is made up of weathered and aged volcanic ash. The ash is known to contain trace amounts of aluminum.
Function
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Bentonite clay is ingested (usually mixed with water or another liquid so that it is easily swallowed) and works its way through the body to the gastrointestinal tract, where the clay begins to absorb toxins in the body, acting like a highly porous sponge.
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Considerations
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Along with toxins, the clay absorbs the good elements in the body, such as nutrients and good bacteria, states HerbalRemedies.com. This poses a problem for pregnant women because these are important elements that the body needs to pass to the fetus for healthy growth and development.
Warning
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According to ColonZone.org, Bentonite clay contains trace amounts of aluminum, which scientists have found to be a neurotixicant to fetuses. The metal has been linked to stunted growth, congenital neural tube defects and delayed bone tissue formation.
Complications
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Though many swear by Bentonite clay cleansing treatments, pregnant women should consider the risk factors. The clay can get stuck in the intestines and such a blockage may require surgery, which creates stress and trauma to the fetus and the mother.
Not Regulated
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The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate Bentonite clay.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kate Weber
