Heartburn, despite its name, has nothing to do with the heart. It is a burning sensation you feel in your throat and chest. Heartburn is common during pregnancy because hormones relax the valve at the entrance to the stomach. When the valve doesn’t close as it should, it allows acidic stomach contents move up into the esophagus. Heartburn tends to get worse later in pregnancy because the growing uterus presses up on the stomach.
Here are 7 tips to help you overcome heartburn:
1. Eat less, more often. Consume smaller meals
2. Take your time when eating.
3. Separate meals from liquids. Stop drinking 20 minutes before a meal and wait 15-20 minutes after your meal to consume liquids.
4. Stay upright after eating. Avoid laying down or bending over after a meal.
5. Don’t eat 3 hours before bed.
6. Know your triggers and avoid them: fried foods, spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, citrus. Every woman is different and will experience different triggers.
7. Ginger: Ginger tea and ginger chews can ease an upset tummy. They also help with morning sickness!
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