Enjoy the Ride :: Children and Parenting

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Enjoy the Ride
by author Joey Shulman, DC

Pregnancy is a physical and emotional rollercoaster. In addition to weight gain, pregnant women commonly experience nausea, hemorrhoids, and heartburn. Natural treatment options can help ameliorate or even prevent these unpleasant symptoms.

Of all the symptoms pregnant women report, nausea is at the top of the list. In fact, it is estimated that anywhere from 50 to 90 percent of all pregnant women experience some degree of nausea while pregnant. One of the most effective approaches to minimizing nausea symptoms in pregnant women is by supplementing with ginger. To minimize upset stomach, take ginger as a powder with food or after each meal steeped as tea or chewed as gum.

Various other natural options for treating nausea during pregnancy include eating frequent, small snacks such as whole grain crackers. Learn to breathe using your diaphragm rather than your chest. Talk to your doctor about supplementing with vitamin
B6. And drink herbal teas such as raspberry leaf and fennel.

Help with Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids during pregnancy develop when the veins around the anal wall swell as a result of constipation, a change in hormones, an increase in weight, or a combination of these causes.

To prevent hemorrhoids and to help heal an active hemorrhoid once it has appeared, it is important to avoid constipation and straining with bowel movements. Eat a diet high in fibre consisting of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. In addition, stay well hydrated by drinking herbal teas or water. Reduce stress by using the washroom in a relaxed environment to avoid further strain or pressure to the rectal area.

Fish oil supplements can also contribute to pain-free bowel movements. The good news is that hemorrhoids experienced during pregnancy usually clear up after delivery.

Hints for Heartburn

Pregnant women experience heartburn for several reasons. Sometimes the growing baby puts pressure on the mother’s stomach, causing stomach acid to be pushed up through the lower esophageal sphincter.

Heartburn symptoms can be minimized with a few dietary and lifestyle changes. Avoid foods that trigger heartburn, including fast food, refined flour and sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. It is also important to chew your food well and avoid large meals or snacks. In addition, a moderate and healthy weight gain of only about 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy can help minimize the likelihood of heartburn.

Drink plenty of water between and with meals to ensure healthy digestion from conception to delivery.

If you do experience heartburn, prop your head and shoulders on pillows and avoid lying flat on your back, a position that only worsens symptoms. When moving around, try to bend with your knees and not with your hips. Bending at the waist can put more pressure on your stomach. Avoid slouching as it can worsen heartburn symptoms.

Pregnancy is one of the most exciting times of your life. By implementing these steps, you can feel your very best while preparing for your new role as a mom.

Joey Shulman, DC, is a chiropractic doctor and the author of the best-seller, The Natural Makeover Diet (Wiley, 2006). Please visit drjoey.com.

Source: alive #294, April 2007

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