12 Ways to Soothe Heartburn in Pregnancy - Article Health

Pregnancy-related heartburn
Heartburn plagues most moms-to-be at some point because progesterone, the hormone that relaxes muscles in pregnancy, also relaxes the stomach valve that keeps acid out of the esophagus. In addition, the growing uterus crowds the stomach, forcing acid into the esophagus.

Eat small meals
If you're suffering from morning sickness, eating just a little at a time is probably no problem for you. But if your appetite is healthy, be sure to avoid eating so much that you feel full.

Take it slow
Bolting down your food can also lead to heartburn and indigestion. Try to relax and enjoy your meals, which will also help you avoid overeating.

Sip liquids
Rather than drinking a big glass of milk with dinner, you may be better off just sipping liquids during meals. Try to get most of your fluid intake by drinking beverages between, rather than during, meals.

Sit or stand after a meal
After a meal, take a leisurely walk, do a little housework, sit down and read a book—just don't lie down, and don't do anything that requires you to bend over. Both of these activities can help wash acid back up into your esophagus.

Keep your head and upper chest elevated at night
Many people with acid reflux swear by their "bedges," wedge-shaped pillows that gently slant your upper body upwards to keep stomach acid where it belongs.

Know your triggers
Fat, caffeine, chocolate, citrus—pregnant women with heartburn have been advised to avoid all of the above at one time or another. But what causes reflux in one woman might not be a trigger for another.


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