Minor food-related ailments during pregnancy
Common ailments during pregnancy include nausea and vomiting (also known as morning sickness), which are most common in the first three months of pregnancy; heartburn and indigestion; and constipation.
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The suggestions below may help ease these symptoms. Tips for dealing with constipation, such as drinking plenty of water and eating lots of fibre, can be found on Treating constipation.
Morning sickness
- Eat some dry crackers or toast first thing in the morning.
- Avoid strong food odours by eating food cold or at room temperature and using good ventilation while cooking.
- Avoid fragrances that might trigger nausea, such as perfume, household cleaners, and air fresheners.
- Drink a cup of ginger tea. Make it yourself by steeping one teaspoon of ground or grated ginger in boiling water in a teapot for a few minutes. Strain and add honey or brown sugar to taste.
Heartburn and indigestion
- Eat small, low-fat meals and snacks, such as fruits, pretzels, crackers, and low-fat yogurt, slowly and frequently.
- Drink fluids between meals.
- Avoid foods that may irritate the stomach, such as caffeine, spearmint, peppermint, citrus fruits, spicy foods, high-fat foods, and tomato products.
- Take a walk after meals.
- Avoid eating or drinking for one to two hours before lying down.
- Slowly eating a bland snack such as a watery melon or low-fat yogurt can help ease heartburn. Yogurt is also a good source of calcium.
Lisa Hark, PhD RD & Dr Darwin Deen
Posted 14.02.2011
See more in the dossier: Nutrition for pregnancy
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