Many expectant mothers question the safety of natural products during pregnancy. Acacia fiber, also known as acacia gum, is a natural dietary fiber that has been used as a folk remedy for centuries. The fiber is used commercially as a demulcent and stabilizer in pharmaceuticals and processed foods. Although the fiber is nontoxic, it may not be safe to consume during pregnancy. Consult your health-care provider before taking acacia fiber powder or any other natural product while pregnant.
Identification
Acacia fiber comes from the hardened sap of a thorny tree that grows in certain parts of Africa. According to peer-reviewed medical information website Drugs.com, Egyptians used acacia fiber as a pain-reliever and glue, while Arabic doctors used it to treat various ailments. The fiber contains a variety of acids, calcium, neutral sugars and electrolytes. The primary component of acacia fiber is arabin, a water-soluble carbohydrate. The hardened sap is odorless, brittle and has a bland taste. Supplemental acacia fiber is available in powder form from various natural health stores and online retailers.
Uses
The Center for New Crops and Plant Products at Purdue University states that acacia fiber is used as a demulcent in pharmaceuticals to relieve inflammation in the stomach and throat caused by intestinal mucosa. The fiber has been used externally to treat wounds, burns and nodular leprosy. Other uses of acacia fiber include treatment for dysentery, fever, diarrhea, coughs and gonorrhea. The fiber is commonly used as a binding agent in throat lozenges. Research published in 1993 in the "Journal of Clinical Periodontology" indicates that the antibacterial properties of acacia fiber can inhibit the development of periodontal bacteria in whole gum mixtures. More research is needed to test the validity of this claim. Consult your physician before using acacia fiber to treat any type of health condition or injury during pregnancy.
Side Effects
Mild to severe side effects may occur as a result of using acacia fiber. Orally ingesting acacia fiber may increase your serum cholesterol levels. The fiber might cause a severe allergic reaction, especially if you are allergic to dust. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to acacia fiber include skin lesions, asthma attack and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking the fiber and seek emergency medical care. Untreated, an allergic reaction during pregnancy reduces oxygen and blood flow to the uterus.
Warning
According to Drugs.com, scientific research on the effects of acacia fiber on pregnancy and fetal development is lacking. Avoid intravenous administration of acacia fiber, which can cause liver or renal damage. Always consult your obstetrician or midwife before orally ingesting or topically applying acacia fiber during pregnancy.
