Good Snacks for Pregnancy Heartburn

What is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a common, yet uncomfortable symptom of pregnancy. It is caused by the baby pushing on the stomach and the growing uterus reducing the space for the stomach, causing the acid from the stomach to enter the esophagus, resulting in a burning sensation. Heartburn is more likely to occur during the third trimester when the baby is growing and taking up more space in the abdomen. Fortunately, there are some snacks that can help pregnant women to manage their heartburn, and even prevent it altogether.

Foods to Avoid

When it comes to snacks, there are some that should be avoided to prevent heartburn. These include fatty and fried foods, such as chips and French fries, as they can relax the sphincter at the bottom of the esophagus and can cause acid to come back up. Also, spicy foods, such as hot peppers, should be avoided, as they can worsen heartburn. In addition, caffeine and carbonated beverages should be avoided, as they can also increase the risk of heartburn.

Good Snack Options

Fortunately, there are a variety of snacks that can help pregnant women to manage their heartburn. These include fruits and vegetables, such as apples, bananas, carrots, and celery. These foods are high in fiber, which can help to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach. In addition, complex carbohydrates like whole grain bread, crackers, and oatmeal are good snack options, as they can help to absorb the acid in the stomach. Low-fat dairy products, such as yogurt, are also good snack options, as they can help to neutralize the acid in the stomach.

Herbal Tea

Herbal teas can also be a great snack option for pregnant women suffering from heartburn. Herbal teas such as ginger, chamomile, and peppermint can help to reduce the symptoms of heartburn. In addition, these teas can also help to soothe the digestive system and can help to reduce nausea, which is also a common symptom of pregnancy. It is important to note that it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming herbal teas, as some may not be safe for pregnant women.

Natural Remedies

In addition to dietary changes, there are also some natural remedies that can help pregnant women to manage their heartburn. These include eating small, frequent meals throughout the day, rather than large meals. This can help to prevent the stomach from becoming too full, which can worsen heartburn. In addition, avoiding lying down soon after eating can also help to reduce the symptoms of heartburn. Finally, drinking plenty of water can help to reduce the symptoms of heartburn, as it can help to flush the stomach acid out of the esophagus.

Conclusion

Pregnancy heartburn can be an uncomfortable symptom, but fortunately, there are some snacks that can help to reduce the symptoms. Fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, low-fat dairy products, and herbal teas can all be good snack options for pregnant women. In addition, making dietary changes and avoiding lying down soon after eating can also help to reduce the symptoms of heartburn. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before changing one's diet during pregnancy.