If you are pregnant, then you know morning sickness is a very common problem among pregnant women. In fact, more than 50 of them will experience it, sometime during their pregnancy. Morning sickness is most common during the first trimester, but can occur any time thereafter. It also is not restricted only to mornings and can basically occur at any time during the day. If you are in the half that has never experienced it, then consider yourself very lucky!
There are several things you can do, which will help to prevent the problem. You don’t have to suffer during this joyous time. In severe cases, there are prescription medications available. But, you should always try natural remedies, before asking your doctor to prescribe something.
Eating a few plain crackers about 30 minutes before you get up, every morning, should help to ease your symptoms of nausea. (If crackers are unavailable, you can substitute pretzels.)
When you do get up, both in the morning and from a nap do so slowly. Moving too quickly can cause dizziness, which will usually lead to other symptoms.
Studies show that ginger root can be very helpful in preventing morning sickness. Even if you don’t particularly care for the taste, you will probably find it worth it to ‘grin and bear it’. After all, you won’t have to eat it forever.
You can sprinkle ground ginger, on your cereal. You can also make ginger tea, quite easily. Simply peel and slice a one to two inch piece of ginger root. Steep in boiling water for approximately 20 minutes. Strain and sip slowly. Other alternatives are ginger ale and gingersnaps.
Some women have found that the smell of fresh lemon helps to ease their nausea. Keep one close by, to sniff, when you begin to feel ill.
Anemia or low iron can cause morning sickness. Make sure your diet includes foods which are high in protein. These foods include: peanut butter, spinach, dried beans, liver, sweet potatoes, oat bran, carrots and tuna. Eating foods that are high in carbohydrates can also be quite helpful.
It is better to eat several small meals, during the course of the day. Instead of eating a traditional breakfast, lunch and dinner try eating six smaller meals, instead. This will give your food ample time to digest.
Drinking plenty of water will also help to prevent morning sickness. However, it is advisable that you discontinue drinking any beverage, approximately 30 minutes before each meal. Sucking on ice chips, throughout the day, is recommended, as well.
It’s probably quite obvious that you should avoid spicy foods and foods which contain high amounts of fat. They can wreak havoc on your digestive system.
The use of aromatherapy oils can help to prevent symptoms of morning sickness. Peppermint, ginger or any citrus scent should be used.
These are just a few things you can do to help ease the agony and uncomfortable feelings of morning sickness. You will be happy to learn that, as a rule, most of these symptoms will begin to dissipate after three or four months. |