Relieve Heartburn During Pregnancy – Parenthood

Heartburn during pregnancy is something that plagues many pregnant women from the second trimester until the end of this stage. Fortunately, the acidity is usually low in intensity and intermittent over the nine months, although this can be problematic.

This burning sensation in the stomach during pregnancy is caused by a combination of hormones and the force exerted by the baby while pushing the internal organs. Generally speaking, the acidity during pregnancy goes away after childbirth.

Obviously, many women experience heartburn for the first time during pregnancy. Although this is common and usually mild, it can result in a rather uncomfortable feeling for expectant mothers.

Heartburn during pregnancy and related problems, such as gas and bloating, usually begin in the second trimester. However, they can appear earlier in some women.

How to relieve heartburn during pregnancy?

Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent heartburn during pregnancy. Women with this ailment will be able to rest comfortably, given that it will be enough for them to make a slight change in their diet and lifestyle.

So here are some tips for relieving heartburn during pregnancy:

1. Eat meals in small quantities and frequently

The first thing that is generally recommended is to eat small amounts of food and frequently. Also, the last meal of the day should be taken at least three hours before bedtime. In this sense, expectant mothers with heartburn should not fall asleep right after a meal.

2. Check the amount of fluids

What’s more, try not to drink large amounts of fluids after the last meal of the day. Remember, the more empty your stomach is at bedtime, the less likely you are to have acid reflux.

3. Chewing gum an original solution to limit heartburn during pregnancy

On the other hand, chewing gum can be helpful in relieving heartburn. This is because chewing gum stimulates saliva, which contains bicarbonate. In particular, this neutralizes the acid that accumulates in the esophagus.

4. Avoid certain foods

Any specific food that makes heartburn worse should be avoided right away. Among them are coffee, tea, alcohol, chocolate, fatty or fried foods, citrus fruits and fruit juices, spicy foods, tomatoes, mint, etc.

5. Apply aloe vera gel

This natural healing agent can be obtained through the leaves of living plants or simply by purchasing gel. Topically, you need to apply the gel to the chest, throat and abdomen. Aloe vera gel effectively treats inflammation, reduces heartburn and symptoms of acid reflux.

6. Do not smoke: most important to avoid heartburn during pregnancy

It is undeniable that pregnant women should not smoke. In addition to damaging the fetus, it weakens the lower esophageal sphincter and worsens acid reflux.

7. Eat yogurt or milk

A yogurt or a glass of milk can probably relieve heartburn. Keep in mind that cow’s milk can provide immediate relief.

However, some say that over time heartburn can get worse from these dairy products. Therefore, try milk substitutes like soy milk, rice or goat milk. It is worth noting that heating the milk and adding a little honey can relieve the burning in the chest for some.

8. Coconut water

Coconut water acts as an excellent natural acid neutralizer. It is easily accessible and can thus relieve the symptoms of heartburn during pregnancy.

9. Lie on your left side at night

This simple action can also decrease acid reflux. In this position, it is physically more difficult for the acid to flow back into the esophagus. Sometimes it may be necessary to sleep in a recliner at an angle of 45 degrees or more.

10. Practice acupuncture: it works to decrease heartburn during pregnancy.

Acupuncture has been safe during pregnancy and has treated heartburn for thousands of years. Its relaxing treatment helps reduce symptoms of heartburn, adjusts esophageal pressure, lowers stomach acid, and balances the functions of the digestive organs.

In short, to fight heartburn during pregnancy, it is very important to change some daily habits. Practicing the tips above will help you feel better and reduce the feeling of discomfort that the acidity can cause.