|
Natural Remedies for Heartburn here.">One of the most common ailments pregnant women complain about is heartburn, especially during the second and third trimesters. This annoying and painful condition feels as though it’s never ending - the burning sensation in the chest, throat and neck plus the sour, acidic taste in the mouth. Heartburn also known as acid indigestion or GERD (Gastro intestinal reflux disorder) is when the LES (Lower esophageal sphincter) muscle is weak and doesn’t close properly; allowing acids from the food you ate to come back up. This muscle can be weakened due to certain lifestyle habits, genes, stress, and excess weight, but also pregnancy. Here’s why: Why heartburn occurs during pregnancy: ? Pregnancy causes hormones to change; when they change they affect the muscles in the digestive tract and how different foods are accepted. Pregnancy hormones may cause the valve linking the esophagus to the stomach (lower esophageal sphincter) to relax thereby allowing the acid in the stomach to rise up into the esophagus. ? During pregnancy the uterus increases in size; this may put pressure on the abdomen, allowing stomach acids to rise. ? Many pregnant women experience gallstones and depending on where the gallstone is lodged is could be pushing on other organs. How to prevent and manage your heartburn during pregnancy: ? Sit up straight. You may want to sit straight when taking your meals and stay that way afterwards. Avoid immediately lying down, slumping and stooping. When you need to bend, do it with your knees. ? Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. (You probably already knew that one) ? Eat 5 small meals rather than 3 big ones. Refrain from eating before going to bed. Make your last meal for the day three hours before you hit the sack. ? Chew food thoroughly; this allows your stomach enough time to digest food. You may want to try chewing sugarless gum in order to increase your saliva, which can help in neutralizing the acid in the esophagus. ? Wear loose and comfortable clothes. ? Manage Stress. Stress and food don’t go well together. Try taking a relaxing Epsom salt bath. ? Avoid citrus beverages, sodas, spicy, salty and greasy foods. Also try and avoid caffeine. Caffeine relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). ? Keep your head and neck elevated while you sleep by propping two pillows under you. ? Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight puts pressure on vital organs, especially the abdomen area. Too much fat can prevent the digestive system from doing its job. ? Include ripe papaya into your diet. Papaya contains an enzyme called Papain. Papain aids with digestion. ? Snack on a handful of almonds. The oils in almonds coat the throat and tummy. ? Drink a glass of warm milk with a tablespoon of honey. Honey is a great anti-inflammatory. Heartburn almost always goes away one you’ve delivered your baby. If you have tried all of the above and are still experiencing heartburn please consult with your OBGYN. Learn more about Natural Remedies for Heartburn here.
Related Articles -
heartburn, natural, remedies,
|
