Problems like heartburn and indigestion are faced by many pregnant women. Following a healthy lifestyle can help to prevent such problems. Read on to find out some remedies to deal with problems like heartburn and indigestion.Heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy proves to be quite unpleasant for the mother-to-be. Here are a few tips that will help you endure the ordeal.
In most cases, pregnant women are plagued by heartburn and indigestion at some point of time during their pregnancy. The burning sensation in the chest which is commonly termed as “heartburnâ€, however, has nothing to do with the heart. It extends from the breast-bone to the lower region of the throat and is a result of the physiological and hormonal changes in the body.
Heartburn is mainly caused by progesterone, a hormone produced by the placenta which relaxes the uterine muscles, hence forcing acid into the esophagus that causes the burning sensation. The effect of the relaxation of muscles all throughout the body also affects the digestive system thereby resulting in indigestion as it slows the digestive process.
Eat Smaller Meals
Eat several smaller meals all throughout the day rather than large meals. There is no hurry, so take your time, relax and enjoy your meal which will aid in eating and thoroughly chewing your food as they say “digestion begins in the mouthâ€. Eating too much at a time slows down the digestion process making the effect of the heartburn last longer. Be sure as to avoid eating too much and make yourself full. At work, you can also carry some healthy snacks to munch on.
Drink More Liquids
Sipping on liquids reduce the unpleasant effects of heartburn.Surprisingly a glass or two of the wonder of H2O proves to be effective in curing both
morning sickness and heartburn. However, avoid drinking liquids in between meals as it dilutes the digestive juices in the stomach. This results in the increase of the effects of
heartburn. Sipping on beverages like buttermilk and coconut water to keep you hydrated is also a good idea.
Fitness is the Key
Keeping fit is the key to a
healthy pregnancy. Although, stress eating during pregnancy is normal, try not to over-indulge which may result in unnecessary weight-gain. Meditation and other techniques that provide relaxation might help deal with stress. Maintain a daily exercise routine after consulting your doctor and you can say goodbye to the ills of
indigestion and heartburn during pregnancy. However, consulting a trained yoga instructor is highly necessary as yoga for pregnant women is different from mainstream yoga.
Know What Causes Reflux
There are many food items that the body might reject during pregnancy. As for instance, in normal cases, fats, citrus,
caffeine, chocolate, alcohol are generally not advised for pregnant women. It may not be the same for everyone and may vary from woman to woman. However, it is advisable to stay away from foods which aggravate you more.
Say No to Smoking
Smoking during pregnancy is undoubtedly bound to have a hazardous effect on both you and your baby. It is a habit that should be given up even before pregnancy for the sake of your child’s well-being. It is from the mother that the baby gets nourishment and the essential nutrients are received by the baby from the placenta and the umbilical cord. Smoking exposes the baby to harmful toxins and tobacco smoke and also destroys the placental function. It might also elevate the effects of heartburn in the mother as it relaxes the valve of the food pipe and hence making it more likely for you to have indigestion.
Heartburn and indigestion is harmless for the baby and normal in most pregnant women. Consulting a physician as professional medical advice can help guide you through the process without having any risks involved.
What are the causes of heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy? How to prevent heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy? What are the home remedies for heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy? Discuss here. 
