The first trimester of pregnancy can be quite unpleasant, especially if you’re hit with waves of nausea. For my first child I remember being 11 weeks pregnant and feeling worse than ever but thankfully I didn’t suffer with much nausea beyond the three-month mark, but my second I had nausea through out. At the time I was also working with food for my job. Let’s just say it was HARD!!! But fear not! There are a few tips and tricks that have worked wonders for many expecting moms. Number 3 was a gamechanger for me! Here are 10 of the best:
1. Get plenty of rest — Even if it’s hard to fall asleep at night, try to get as much shut-eye as possible during the day and early evening hours. Your body needs time to recharge and restore energy levels, which can help combat nausea symptoms.
2. Eat small meals more often — If your stomach is feeling unsettled, avoid eating large meals by splitting them up into smaller portions throughout the day. Eating this way will keep your body consistently nourished, and won’t put too much stress on your digestive system.
3. Have ginger — Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea that works wonders! Try drinking tea with fresh grated ginger or eating crystallised ginger as a snack. You can also take ginger capsules if you prefer.
4. Take Vitamin B6 — Research has shown that taking a daily dosage of vitamin B6 may help to reduce morning sickness in pregnant women. Speak to your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet during pregnancy though just to be safe.
5. Avoid spicy food and strong smells — Eating overly hot or spicy foods can make nausea worse, so stick to milder flavours until you’re feeling better. Also, if strong smells like cooking food or perfumes are setting off your gag reflex, try to limit exposure as much as you can.
6. Drink lots of fluids — Even though nausea may make it hard for some women to keep liquids down, staying hydrated is key to feeling better and flushing out toxins from your body. Opt for sipping on plain water throughout the day instead of chugging large amounts at once.
7. Eat something prior to getting up — Eating a light snack before getting out of bed in the morning can help settle your stomach and reduce feelings of nausea during the day ahead. Bland crackers, toast, or cereal should help without adding too much stress on your digestive system.
8. Try acupressure — This ancient Chinese therapy involves using your fingers to press on certain pressure points found in the body, which can help relieve nausea and other digestive issues. Ask your doctor for a recommendation if you are interested in trying it out.
9. Exercise — Even though regular exercise may feel like the last thing you want to do when feeling nauseous, moderate physical activity can often help alleviate symptoms by boosting blood circulation and releasing endorphins that make you feel calmer and happier.
10. Get some fresh air — Going outside for a short walk everyday can do wonders for both your mental and physical wellbeing! As well as helping to reduce feelings of nausea, some much-needed Vitamin D from the sun can also help to boost your mood, giving you a much-needed energy boost.
Bonus FAQ’s
Q: Does Coke help with nausea during pregnancy?
A: This is very personal , so you may want to discuss it with your doctor. Generally, carbonated drinks are not recommended while pregnant as they can make nausea worse. Additionally, sugary drinks like soda can cause a spike in blood sugar levels which can also exacerbate your symptoms. If you decide to consume these types of beverages, double check with your healthcare provider first.
Q: Is morning sickness tea safe to drink during pregnancy?
A: Although there are herbal remedies available which may help to reduce the intensity of morning sickness, it is still best to avoid ingesting any herbs or supplements during pregnancy unless they have been specifically prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider. Herbs can interact with other medications and cause side effects that could be unsafe for you and your baby. So, it is best to err on the side of caution and steer clear of these teas while pregnant.
Q: Is Gatorade good for pregnancy nausea?
A: This again is very personal! Generally speaking, Gatorade is a better choice for treating nausea during pregnancy compared to soda or sugary juices as it rehydrates the body and contains electrolytes. However, you should always check with your doctor first before adding any new beverage to your diet while pregnant.
Q: Are smoothies or popsicles good for nausea during pregnancy?
A: Smoothies and popsicles can be a refreshing and delicious way to stay hydrated if you’re experiencing nausea during pregnancy. Reaching for drinks that contain electrolytes such as coconut water, fresh fruit juice, are great options when trying to combat nausea. Avoid sugary drinks or those that are high in caffeine as they can make the symptoms worse. You can also try making your own popsicles or smoothies using fresh fruits and vegetables, which will provide you with essential vitamins and minerals to help keep nausea at bay. Always check with your doctor before consuming anything new while pregnant.
We hope this has been helpful in understanding how to cope with morning sickness and reduce nausea during pregnancy. Remember, each woman’s experience is different so it is important to discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare provider.
Health disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. The content of this article is not intended to diagnose health issues or take the place of professional medical care. All the best momma!