Abstract
Pregnancy dramatically changes maternal metabolism and the microbiome. Low-grade inflammation can cause maternal complications and fetal abnormalities. The objective of this open-label, randomized, controlled study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of orally administered Chlorella, a green alga that is commercially available as a dietary supplement with rich nutrients and dietary fiber for pregnant women with low-grade inflammation. Patients with C-reactive protein levels >0.05 mg/dL (16 weeks gestation, n = 22) were enrolled and randomly allocated to the Chlorella group (n = 10) or control group (n = 12). We conducted blood biochemical tests at 25, 30, and 35 weeks gestation and evaluated the evacuation status (symptoms depending on the Rome IV C2 criteria and laxative usage), side effects, and complications throughout the investigation. We also monitored the status of the offspring. The Chlorella group (n = 0) showed a significantly lower rate of constipation than the control group (n = 8). This study demonstrated the beneficial effects and safety of Chlorella supplementation in pregnant women, which prevented constipation and unnecessary laxative administration.