NAUSEA DURING PREGNANCY
Nausea or vomiting, commonly called morning sickness may occur during the early months of pregnancy. It usually disappears after the third month.
Try these tips if you have this problem:
• Before you get out of bed in the morning, eat a few crackers, a handful of dry cereal, or a piece of toast or dry bread. Put these within reach of your bed the night before.
• Do not brush your teeth as soon as you get up in the morning or soon after you eat.
• Avoid sudden movements and try and get up slowly in the mornings.
• If you feel nauseated between meals, then drink small amounts of apple or grape juice.
• For some people avoiding greasy and fried foods help.
• Make sure you have fresh air in the room you sleep in, and cook with open windows or with the exhaust on to get rid of odours.
• Eat unseasoned and mild-flavoured foods.
• Chew your food well
• Drink clear, cool beverages and try clear soups.
CONSTIPATION
Constipation is one of the common problems during pregnancy. This happens during pregnancy because the muscles in your intestines become more relaxed. Iron and calcium supplements can also cause constipation. Inadequate intake of fiber and fluids, and irregular eating habits are the other factors causing constipation.
How to prevent or treat this?
• Increase the intake of high-fiber foods such as unrefined grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Also try softer high fiber foods like oatmeal, legumes, prune juice and barley to help soften the stool.
• Increase liquid intake.
• Daily exercise can also help.
Do not use any type of laxative other than bulk-producing ones unless under the supervision of the health care provider.
HEARTBURN
Try this to help prevent heartburn:
• Eat small, frequent meals.
• Avoid foods like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, onions, etc which are gas-forming.
• Try and avoid greasy, fried and spicy foods.
• Keep sipping on water.
• Avoid lying down for two hours after eating.
• Cut down on beverages that contain caffeine.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
