Pregnant with Acid Reflux? Heartburn Home Remedies by Pukeology
The Science behind Acid Reflux during Pregnancy
During pregnancy, many women experience symptoms of acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in their third trimester. However, it's important to note that heartburn can affect anyone. Indigestion caused by overeating is a common trigger for heartburn, especially during occasions like Thanksgiving. So, how can you differentiate between heartburn and GERD? Let's explore the symptoms...
GERD Symptoms
- Acidic or bitter taste in the mouth
- Burning sensation in the chest
- Occurs shortly after meals, particularly if the meal is spicy
- Feels like a miniature episode of vomiting, with the irritation lingering in the throat
What Causes Heartburn?
That burning sensation you feel is a result of stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus. Ideally, food should travel down the throat (esophagus), into the stomach, and continue its journey through the intestines. However, when the lower esophageal sphincter (a small flap between the stomach and esophagus) malfunctions, partially digested food can find its way back into the throat. The burning feeling is caused by the stomach acid mixed with the food.
During pregnancy, heartburn is common due to high levels of progesterone, a hormone that promotes relaxation. This hormone can cause the lower esophageal sphincter or the cap of the stomach to relax, allowing food to come back up the wrong way. Additionally, the growing baby occupies space in the abdomen, leading to less room for food. Taking your time while eating and stopping when you're full can help minimize heartburn during pregnancy. However, it's important to note that even non-pregnant individuals can experience acid reflux due to factors like indigestion, overeating, and certain foods.
If you want to minimize your chances of experiencing GERD symptoms or heartburn, whether you're pregnant or not, it is recommended to avoid the following foods:
A GERD diet should exclude:
- Spicy foods
- Citrus products (tomatoes, oranges, lemons, etc.)
- Chocolate
- Large meals
- Fatty or fried foods
Now that we understand the causes of heartburn, let's explore some different remedies!
Home Remedies for Acid Reflux
Walking into a local pharmacy and seeing countless bottles labeled "acid reflux remedy" or "heartburn medicine" can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are easy home remedies that don't require pills, as well as medication recommendations for those who prefer that route.
Easy Home Remedies
- Sip liquids between meals
- Take a leisurely walk after meals
- Avoid eating for at least 3 hours before bed
- Sleep with your head and upper chest slightly elevated (a cheap wedge pillow can do the trick!)
- Follow the GERD diet outlined above!
- Try incorporating papaya enzymes or herbs like chamomile or licorice into your diet.
And finally, our personal favorite, INVEST in a NoMo Nausea wristband! This essential oil-infused pressure bracelet uses peppermint essential oil aromatherapy to alleviate nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness, morning sickness during pregnancy, and nausea from chemotherapy in just 30 seconds. It also increases the production of anti-nausea hormones through acupressure. Say goodbye to nausea, even before you take a bite of that spicy burrito.
Home Remedies for Acid Reflux during Pregnancy
Whether you are pregnant or suffering from heartburn or indigestion after a hearty Thanksgiving meal, consider these effective heartburn medications:
- H2 blockers (Pepcid & Zantac): These medications decrease acid production. It's important to take them before you start feeling symptoms since they do not neutralize existing stomach acid.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (Prevacid, Protonix, & Nexium): These drugs reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. However, continuous usage is required as the pump may reopen and continue acid production if discontinued.
- Antacids (Mylanta, Tums, & Rolaids): These provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acids. However, if you have a sodium-restricted diet due to blood pressure issues, preeclampsia, or other reasons, be cautious with their use.
If you're one of the many pregnant women experiencing severe heartburn during your second and third trimesters, try these remedies! At NoMo Nausea, we want you to enjoy every aspect of pregnancy, including indulging in that spicy burrito. For more information on this topic, tune into Episode 9 of our Pukeology Podcast!
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the difference between heartburn and morning sickness?
Heartburn is a burning pain in the chest accompanied by a bitter or acidic taste in the mouth, typically experienced after eating. Morning sickness, on the other hand, refers to nausea and vomiting often experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy.
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Why do pregnant women experience more heartburn during their third trimester?
During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Additionally, the growing baby occupies space in the abdomen, limiting the room for food and causing increased pressure on the stomach.
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What are some home remedies for acid reflux?
Some effective home remedies for acid reflux include sipping liquids between meals, taking leisurely walks after meals, avoiding eating for at least 3 hours before bed, sleeping with the upper chest slightly elevated, following a GERD diet, and trying papaya enzymes or herbal remedies like chamomile or licorice.
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Home Remedies for Acid Reflux and Heartburn During Pregnancy: The Ultimate Guide
Are you pregnant and suffering from the discomfort of acid reflux and heartburn? You're not alone. Many expectant mothers experience these symptoms, especially during the third trimester. Heartburn, characterized by a burning sensation in the chest and a bitter or acidic taste in the mouth, can be quite unpleasant. But don't worry, there are several home remedies you can try to find relief. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about acid reflux and heartburn during pregnancy, as well as effective home remedies.
The Science behind Acid Reflux during Pregnancy
Before we dive into the home remedies, let's take a closer look at why acid reflux occurs during pregnancy. During this time, the hormone progesterone, which promotes relaxation, is at high levels in a woman's body. This hormone can cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a small flap between the stomach and esophagus, to relax. When the LES doesn't close properly, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus, resulting in the uncomfortable symptoms of heartburn.
In addition to hormonal changes, the growing baby also plays a role in causing heartburn. As the baby grows, it occupies more space in the abdomen, putting pressure on the stomach. This pressure pushes the stomach acid upward, leading to reflux and heartburn.
Home Remedies for Acid Reflux and Heartburn during Pregnancy
Luckily, there are several home remedies you can try to alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn during pregnancy:
1. Sip liquids between meals:
Drinking fluids in between meals instead of during meals can help reduce the risk of acid reflux. Consuming liquids while eating can increase the volume of food in the stomach, leading to more pressure on the LES and a higher likelihood of reflux.
2. Take a leisurely walk after meals:
Engaging in light physical activity, such as a leisurely walk, after meals can help aid digestion and prevent acid reflux. Avoid intense exercise immediately after eating, as that may cause symptoms to worsen.
3. Avoid eating for at least 3 hours before bed:
Allowing enough time for your food to digest before lying down can help prevent acid reflux at night. It's recommended to avoid eating for at least three hours before bed to give your stomach enough time to empty.
4. Sleep with your head and upper chest slightly elevated:
Elevating the head and upper chest while sleeping can help keep stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. You can achieve this elevation by using a wedge pillow or propping up the head of your bed.
5. Follow a GERD diet:
Adopting a GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) diet can significantly reduce symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. This diet involves avoiding trigger foods such as spicy foods, citrus products, chocolate, large meals, and fatty or fried foods.
6. Try natural remedies:
Some natural remedies, such as papaya enzymes or herbal teas like chamomile or licorice, can help soothe the symptoms of acid reflux. These remedies are often considered safe for pregnant women, but it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any new remedies.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to listen to your body and experiment with different remedies to find what provides you with the most relief.
Medication Recommendations during Pregnancy
If home remedies aren't providing enough relief, you may need to consider medication options. However, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medications, especially during pregnancy. Here are some medication recommendations for pregnant women with severe acid reflux or heartburn:
1. H2 blockers (Pepcid & Zantac):
These medications decrease the production of stomach acid. It's important to take them before you start feeling symptoms, as they do not neutralize existing stomach acid.
2. Proton Pump Inhibitors (Prevacid, Protonix, & Nexium):
These drugs reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. Continuous usage may be required, as discontinuing them can cause the pump to reopen and resume acid production.
3. Antacids (Mylanta, Tums, & Rolaids):
Antacids provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acids. However, if you have dietary restrictions, such as a sodium-restricted diet, be cautious with their use.
Again, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any medication regimen during pregnancy to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the difference between heartburn and morning sickness?
Heartburn is a burning pain in the chest accompanied by a bitter or acidic taste in the mouth, typically experienced after eating. Morning sickness, on the other hand, refers to nausea and vomiting often experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy.
-
Why do pregnant women experience more heartburn during their third trimester?
During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Additionally, the growing baby occupies space in the abdomen, limiting the room for food and causing increased pressure on the stomach.
-
What are some home remedies for acid reflux?
Some effective home remedies for acid reflux include sipping liquids between meals, taking leisurely walks after meals, avoiding eating for at least 3 hours before bed, sleeping with the upper chest slightly elevated, following a GERD diet, and trying papaya enzymes or herbal remedies like chamomile or licorice.
Armed with this knowledge and an array of home remedies, you can find relief from acid reflux and heartburn during your pregnancy journey. Remember to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Pregnancy should be a beautiful time, free from discomfort, so you can focus on enjoying the miracle of creating life.
For further information on this topic, tune into Episode 9 of our Pukeology Podcast, where we discuss heartburn during pregnancy and more!
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