Pregnancy and Acid Reflux
Some expecting mothers experience the uncomfortable symptoms of acid reflux. A pregnant woman goes through different changes during this phase which includes changes in hormones, emotions as well as in digestive system. These changes are quite acceptable but when it comes to heartburn, acidity or acid reflux problems during pregnancy then it is something unbearable.
The main reason for acid reflux in pregnant women is the hormonal changes as well as the increased pressure on the belly which causes problem in functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that results in acid reflux. In the situation when the esophageal muscles are relaxed this LES or lower esophageal sphincter remains open when the food is passed which is supposed to be closed and so the food content along with acid is directed back to food pipe and throat.
The attacks of acid reflux are quite bothering for a normal person so one can imagine how difficult it is for a pregnant woman to face all this especially when she is facing other pregnancy related problems. In order to mange the acid reflux symptoms the antacids are usually recommended which do respond at times but sometimes do not respond at all.
Medicines can cure the problem for a short while but if the person brings change in diet and lifestyle then the problem will not arise but make sure that you bring the changes gradually. One way to counter this is to go on an acid reflux diet. This is a natural treatment that’s quite effective. It helps you identify acidic food and avoiding them in your diet can make a lot of difference.
Here is some useful information about the changes that can be helpful to deal with acid reflux during pregnancy. It is very important to set an appointment with the health practitioner in order to know what changes need to be made in diet and routine. In other words, bring changes under the supervision of health practitioner’s guideline.
Diet or food items that aggravate the acid reflux problem and heartburn must be avoided in order to stay away from acidity. Here is the list of food items such as fried items, spicy food, citrus fruits, tomatoes, soda, coffee and chocolates. The list is no restricted to these food items only but there are other things as well.
Caffeine containing drinks are also considered bad for those who have acidity as it can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which directs the acid upward.
Smoking and alcohol are also not allowed during pregnancy because these can trigger the attacks of acid reflux.
It is very important not to take large meals as smaller meals can control the acid reflux symptoms like heartburns. In other words, never eat large meals in a single sitting so that it is easy to digest.
Make a habit of chewing your food thoroughly and slowly so that the enzymes necessary for digestion as well as for preventing heartburns can be produced.
There must always be a gap of two to three hours between your bedtime and dinner. In order to overcome the problem of acidity short walk can also work as well as good for digestion. Never lye down immediately after having your meal as it can also cause heartburn.
When you sleep ten keep your head elevated with the help of a wedge pillow or you can raise the head part. By doing so you can prevent the upward movement of the food content to the food pipe as it will stay in the stomach.
Never bend down from the waist to pick up things to avoid the pressure on the abdominal portion.
Keep the weight maintained by mild exercises. Usually acid reflux attacks are quite common and frequent among overweight people so it is best to keep it in check. For pregnant women it is better to manage the weight by including swimming and walking in the routine. For exercise it is better to consult your doctor.
Here we have just mentioned some measures that you can take to avoid acidity during pregnancy. Now you have to find the appropriate measure for yourself.
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