Navigating pregnancy can be a challenging journey filled with numerous questions about what is safe to consume. One such question often revolves around the consumption of Certo, a brand of fruit pectin frequently used in jam and jelly-making and, interestingly enough, by some people trying to pass drug tests.
If you’ve heard about Certo and are wondering about its safety during pregnancy, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll dive deep into understanding Certo, its uses, and most importantly, its impact on pregnant women and their developing babies. Join us as we explore this intriguing topic.
What is Certo?
Certo is a brand of fruit pectin typically used in making jellies and jams. This substance, derived from the cell walls of plants, has a variety of uses, but one that’s gained notoriety is its application for passing drug tests.
Common Uses of Certo
Beyond its culinary applications, Certo has gained fame as a possible detox method for drug users trying to pass drug tests. Known as the “Certo method”, it involves mixing the fruit pectin with a sports drink and consuming this mixture.
Certo for Drug Tests
Drinking Certo before a drug test is based on the theory that pectin binds to drug metabolites in your system, helping you pass the test. However, scientific evidence to support this theory is scant, and results vary between individuals.
Is Certo Safe for Pregnant Women?
This is a crucial question. The safety of consuming Certo during pregnancy hinges on understanding its impact on both the mother and the developing baby.
Impact on the Developing Baby
There is limited research on the effects of Certo on a developing baby. While fruit pectin is generally safe to consume, the substance can cause changes in bowel movements, which could potentially affect the baby.
Effects on the Mother
Drinking Certo while pregnant can cause digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhea. For pregnant women already dealing with nausea, adding Certo to the mix may exacerbate these symptoms. Additionally, the high sugar content in many sports drinks can lead to elevated blood pressure, which can be a concern during pregnancy.
Digestive Issues And Certo
Certo’s primary ingredient, fruit pectin, is known to cause some digestive issues. It can influence your gut health, leading to conditions like constipation or diarrhea. Especially for pregnant women who may already be dealing with a delicate digestive system due to hormonal changes, introducing Certo might exacerbate these symptoms.
While these effects are generally temporary, they could potentially cause discomfort and disrupt daily activities. Always consult with a doctor or a healthcare professional before incorporating such substances into your diet.
Blood Pressure Concerns
The Certo method typically involves mixing the fruit pectin with a sports drink, which is often high in sugar. Increased sugar consumption can lead to elevated blood pressure levels, a concern for anyone, but particularly for pregnant women who are already at risk for pregnancy-induced hypertension.
High blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to complications such as preeclampsia, making it important to monitor and manage your sugar intake carefully.
Can I Drink Detox Juice While Pregnant?
Drinking detox juice while pregnant can be a contentious issue. While the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetable juices can provide beneficial vitamins and nutrients, some detox juices may contain herbs or ingredients that could be harmful during pregnancy.
Furthermore, “detoxing” during pregnancy isn’t recommended due to the potential release of stored toxins into the bloodstream, which could potentially reach the developing baby. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any detox regimen during pregnancy.
For more information, you can refer to resources like the American Pregnancy Association and WebMD.
Can I Use Pectin While Pregnant?
Pectin, including the type found in products like Certo, is generally considered safe for consumption during pregnancy. It’s a natural substance found in fruits and is often used as a thickening agent in foods.
However, while it’s generally safe, it could lead to digestive issues like diarrhea or constipation. And if used as part of a detox method to pass drug tests, it’s important to consider the other ingredients and potential effects involved. As always, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet during pregnancy.
Drinks Pregnant Woman Should Avoid
- Alcohol: Any form of alcohol is strictly off-limits during pregnancy. Consumption can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, which can cause serious physical and developmental harm to the baby.
- Unpasteurized Juices: These can contain harmful bacteria such as E.coli or Salmonella, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.
- High Caffeine Drinks: Excessive caffeine intake may increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental delays. This includes high-caffeine energy drinks and certain types of coffee.
- Herbal Teas: Not all herbal teas are safe during pregnancy. Some, such as those containing nettle, dong quai, pennyroyal, and others, can stimulate uterine contractions or other adverse effects.
- Detox Juices: As mentioned earlier, certain detox juices or “cleanses” could potentially release toxins into your bloodstream, which may reach the baby. Plus, they may contain herbs or ingredients that could be harmful during pregnancy.
- High Sugar Drinks: Regular intake of high-sugar drinks like soda can lead to gestational diabetes and excessive weight gain.
It’s always essential to consult with a healthcare provider to understand what’s safe and what’s not during pregnancy, as individual health situations can vary.
The Certo Method To Pass Drug Tests
How Does the Certo Method Work?
In essence, the Certo method involves drinking plenty of the Certo mixture, usually 24 hours before a drug test. The pectin supposedly prevents THC and other drugs from being excreted in the urine, thus helping to pass the test.
The Risks Associated with the Certo Method
Relying on the Certo method carries risks. The high sugar content in sports drinks can be harmful, and the method does not guarantee to pass a drug test. There’s also a risk of dehydration due to the potential for diarrhea. Pregnant women, in particular, need to be cautious of these risks.
Alternatives to Certo
If the idea of drinking Certo while pregnant makes you uneasy, consider other safer alternatives.
- Natural Detoxification: This involves regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and keeping oneself hydrated. These practices support your body’s natural detoxification processes and can help to gradually eliminate drug metabolites from your system.
- Home Drug Tests: These kits, available in most pharmacies, can help you check for traces of drugs in your system. While not foolproof, they can provide some peace of mind.
- Synthetic Urine: In some cases, synthetic or fake urine is used. However, its legality varies, and using it carries the risk of being caught and facing repercussions.
- Detox Drinks: Certain drinks claim to cleanse your system of drug metabolites. Be sure to check the ingredients, as some may not be safe during pregnancy.
- Abstinence: The most effective and safe way to pass a drug test is to avoid the use of illicit substances entirely.
It’s always recommended to discuss with your healthcare provider before trying any of these methods, particularly during pregnancy.
Conclusion
While Certo is generally safe for consumption, its use during pregnancy is a topic with limited research. Pregnant women considering the Certo method should discuss it with their doctors. Alternatives, including natural detox methods and home drug tests, are likely safer options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can Certo harm my developing baby?
While there’s limited research on Certo’s effects on a developing baby, it’s generally safe. However, it’s always best to consult with your doctor first. - Can I use Certo to pass a drug test while pregnant?
While some people have reported success using the Certo method to pass drug tests, it’s not guaranteed. The method carries risks and potential side effects, especially for pregnant women. - Are there alternatives to Certo for passing a drug test?
Yes, natural detox methods and home drug tests can offer safer alternatives to the Certo method. - Does drinking Certo guarantee I’ll pass a drug test?
No, there’s no guarantee that drinking Certo will help you pass a drug test. Results vary between individuals. - What are the side effects of drinking Certo?
Some side effects include digestive issues like diarrhea or constipation. Drinking Certo mixed with sports drinks can also lead to elevated blood sugar and blood pressure levels. - Why shouldn’t you detox while pregnant?
Detoxing while pregnant is generally not recommended due to the potential risk of releasing stored toxins into the bloodstream, which could potentially reach the developing baby.
Additionally, many detox methods might involve ingredients or practices that are not safe for pregnant women, such as certain herbs, fasting, or excessive exercise. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before attempting any detoxification methods during pregnancy.
