In the realm of pregnancy and childbirth, a movement towards more natural remedies has taken root. Expecting mothers are increasingly exploring age-old therapies and herbs in the pursuit of a nurturing and holistic pregnancy journey.
One such herb that is commanding attention is Shilajit – an Ayurvedic wonder known for its array of health benefits.
Carla’s experience with Shilajit during her pregnancy
Carla is in her thirties having her first child. She is a mom in a local natural wellness group that I met recently who took shilajit during her pregnancy and documented her results.
Based on Carla’s notes and experience during her pregnancy, we will explore the use of shilajit during pregnancy from her perspective.
Profile of Carla
Carla is approximately 5’6” tall and weighed, before pregnancy, around 135 pounds.
Carla makes time for moderate exercise of walking, jogging and playing tennis 3-5 times a week.
Carla is in good health. She has always been eager to ensure she is fueling her body with natural, nutrient-rich foods and supplements, especially during her pregnancy, especially because she has a hectic work life and is trying to do as much as she can before the baby comes.
Her curiosity about how to naturally enhance her nutrient consumption during pregnancy led her to consult her trusted naturopath. She suggested that Carla explore the benefits of shilajit – an ancient Ayurvedic herb revered for its myriad health benefits.
Carla listened to her naturopath and took notes. She was told that she could expect some or all of the following benefits of using shilajit during her pregnancy and beyond.
What is shilajit?
Shilajit is a potent ancient herb that has been highly revered in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries
Known for its rich mineral content and bioactive compounds, Shilajit has been traditionally used for its rejuvenating and healing properties. In recent years, contemporary research has begun to support many of its traditional uses, indicating that it may offer several health benefits.
Notably, it’s been suggested that Shilajit could be particularly beneficial for pregnant women and their developing babies, though more research is needed to fully understand these potential benefits.
Ask Debbie About Hair & Health talks about Shilajit and its benefits for women:
Carla’s Journey: The Impact of Shilajit on Her Pregnancy
Carla decided to supplement her diet with Shilajit during pregnancy. Here are the improvements she noticed in her personal health journey and pregnancy due to incorporating Shilajit into her routine:
1. Increased Energy
Pregnancy can be physically demanding. Carla noticed an improvement in her energy levels and reduced fatigue, which she attributed to Shilajit’s bioactive compounds that are known to enhance vitality.
She was able to be productive longer into the evening than before she became pregnant when she was not taking shilajit.
2. Lessened Anemia Symptoms
Carla found that Shilajit improved her iron absorption, potentially helping to prevent or treat anaemia, a common condition during pregnancy.
3. Improved Fertility
While already pregnant, Carla reflected that Shilajit could have played a part in her successful conception, as some studies suggest it may boost fertility.
4. Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Pregnancy and impending childbirth could have likely been more stressful with work and responsibilities like caring for a sick family member, though Carla thinks shilajit helped balance her mood and outlook.
Carla noticed a decrease in her stress and anxiety levels, likely due to Shilajit’s adaptogenic properties, which help the body cope with stress.
5. Strengthened Immunity
Carla felt healthier overall during her pregnancy. She attributed this to Shilajit, which is known to enhance immune function, providing added protection to both mother and baby.
6. Boosted Bone Health
Pregnancy can put extra strain on the skeletal system. Carla noticed improved bone health, likely due to Shilajit’s mineral-rich content.
7. Enhanced Cognitive Function
Carla found that her cognitive function and memory seemed sharper during her pregnancy, and did not experience as much “Pregnancy Brain” that people warned her about. Preliminary studies suggest that Shilajit may aid cognitive function.
8. Improved Heart Health
Cardiovascular health is crucial during pregnancy. Carla noticed improved heart health, as she did not find that climbing stairs as she got to the end of her pregnancy to be as exhausting as it may have been without shilajit.
9. Relief from Other Conditions
Carla found that her symptoms of other conditions like her mild arthritis and stress were better managed. Shilajit is reported to help suppress such conditions, improving overall health and well-being.
How to Use Shilajit in pregnancy and dosage
If you choose to navigate your pregnancy journey with Shilajit, follow proper guidelines for usage and dosage.
Healthcare professionals typically advise taking shilajit in a smaller dose to begin with, such as a piece about the size of a grain of rice (~100 mg) once per day, and gradually increase the amount taken with each dose up to a large pea size (~300 mg) until the desired benefits are achieved.
Always opt for pure and high-quality Shilajit and initiate with a small dose to assess your body’s response. Your healthcare provider can guide you on the appropriate dosage based on your health status and needs.
Is Shilajit Safe During Pregnancy?
Alternative health practitioners where they have been using shilajit for hundreds of years with positive results highly recommend mineral and nutrient dense shilajit to help nurture a growing baby and mother during pregnancy.
Current Western scientific evidence on the safety of Shilajit consumption during pregnancy is limited. Some studies indicate potential benefits with no observed adverse effects, but these are not conclusive. They advise seeking expert opinion before deciding to incorporate Shilajit into your prenatal regimen.
Concluding thoughts on consuming Shilajit during pregnancy
Navigating pregnancy with Shilajit can be a promising pathway, given its rich nutritional composition and health benefits.
Every pregnancy is unique, and decisions regarding supplementation should be personalized. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement during pregnancy.
References and additional reading
Further readings and research on Shilajit and its use during pregnancy can provide deeper insights. As always, ensure that your information sources are reliable and scientifically validated.
Sources, additional reading
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