Helpful Tips for Dealing with Indigestion During Pregnancy

Most mothers-to-be will experience digestive problems such as heartburn, nausea, or gas sometime during their pregnancy due to hormonal changes and pressure from the growing baby. While the symptoms aren’t unexpected, you don’t want tummy problems to get in your way of preparing for the happy arrival of your child. Fortunately, there are some natural remedies you can try.

Dietary Tips

You may have to discover by trial and error which specific foods agree with you and which you need to avoid. Foods that typically cause heartburn and indigestion include anything spicy, fried, or greasy, as well as foods containing natural acids, such as tomato-based foods. Don’t overlook what you’re drinking, either. Coffee, fruit juices, and carbonated soft drinks are all possible culprits.

At the same time, certain other foods tend to help quell heartburn or aid with digestion. These include yogurt, ginger, and milk with honey.Chewing sugar-free gum after eating can also be helpful.

Timing Tips

As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to change when and how you eat. Instead of eating the usual three meals per day, you might feel better by eating smaller meals more often. The smaller volume puts less strain on your digestive system. Eating slowly and chewing your food well is also helpful.

After you finish eating, it’s important to stay active or at least upright. Try to avoid lying down immediately after eating and insteadwait at least 3-4 hours if you can. This means you may have to eat your final meal earlier in the day than you are used to, but you will feel more comfortable while sleeping.

Sleeping Tips

Many women experience heartburn during the third trimester due to the weight of the baby. To prevent digestive problems at night, you might have to change your sleep position. If you usually sleep on your back,try propping yourself up with a couple of pillows under your shoulders. This is especially helpful for heartburn.

If you’re a side sleeper, lying on your left side may give you some relief. A pregnancy pillow may help you get comfortable and stay that way through the night.

While every person’s body is different, there are some tried-and-true ways to prevent and relieve indigestion during pregnancy. As your baby belly grows and your body changes, you can take positive steps to stay healthy and feeling well.

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