Acid Reflux And Pregnancy
Acid Reflux also occurs in a pregnant woman. Experiencing this while being pregnant is a painful situation for the mother as well as the baby she is carrying.
Acid Reflux often happen to pregnant women because their hormones suddenly increase causing some ligaments and muscles which functions to close the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES). If the LES was left opened, the gastric acid that came from the stomach will eventually go up to the esophagus or worse will also reach the throat which is very painful and may have negative effects on the growth of the baby and health of the mother.
Because of the increased pressure inside the mother’s womb while being pregnant, it is more very likely to let this pressure push the gastric acid up to the LES, then to the esophagus and may also reach the throat.
The good thing about this is that there are some tips on how to lessen the pain while having Acid Reflux. Though it will not always make this disease vanish, at least the pain will be lessened than its usual feeling.
It is advisable for a pregnant woman to avoid acidic foods like chocolates, citrus fruits and juices, mustard, tomatoes or just tomato-based products, and other sour foods and beverages. Because these foods are sour, it will just increase the acid level inside your stomach. Also, avoid fatty foods and fried foods. Too much fat and cholesterol will only increase the pressure inside the stomach.
Caffeine must not be taken by pregnant women. Beverages with caffeine like coffee, soda drinks and tea should be taken away in front of them. Caffeine tends the LES to stop its function and just let the gastric acid go up.
Also, avoid alcoholic beverages because like caffeine, it allows gastric acid to flow freely up to the esophagus.
In terms of taking meals, it is better to eat small meals within small gaps of time. Also, avoid having a rush in eating. When in rush, some food will not be chewed. After meals, a pregnant woman should always drink a glass of water. Aside from this, drink at least 8-10 glasses of water everyday. This will help effective digestion. It is also better to drink water between meals for better digestion. Importantly, don’t lie down and just maintain an upright position after meals. Gravity will be a great help for better digestion. By following this, our body will not have a hard time digesting the food and may avoid risks of Acid Reflux.
Because gravity helps pregnant women to avoid Acid Reflux, be sure to elevate the head by using a pillow for about 6-8 inches. This will also avoid heartburn at nighttime.
Avoid bending and slouching. This will also increase the pressure inside the stomach.
Avoid smoking. Cigarettes contain substances that trigger Acid Reflux. It not only causes Acid Reflux but also other deadly diseases and complications.
A pregnant woman should not just take care of herself but should also take care of the little creature inside her womb. Acid Reflux causes pain to a pregnant woman as well as her baby.
Related posts: