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Expert Q&A
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| By Bridget Swinney, M.S., R.D. General Nutrition Expert Prenatal Nutrition Expert | ||
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What can I do to stop heartburn?
You can blame the hormones of pregnancy for causing heartburn! The same hormones that slow down digestion while you're pregnant also relax the sphincter muscle that keeps food in your stomach. Also, since your baby is pushing up on your GI tract, there is less room for food. Both of these things can cause stomach acids to back up into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation.
There are several things you can do to help ease the pain, which some women never have during pregnancy while others have all the time! Eating small, frequent meals helps. Also choose foods that aren't fried, greasy or spicy. Caffeine can also contribute to heartburn. You will find that some foods bother you more than others. Some foods, such as milk or yogurt, may also ease heartburn for some women. Another strategy you can use is to avoid lying down for a few hours after eating; try standing or going on a walk instead. Some women like to sleep on several pillows to elevate their head to keep stomach acids where they belong."
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More Answers by this Expert
- I am 15 weeks pregnant and ate a Greek salad with feta cheese. Should I be concerned?
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- Is it best to eat regular sugar or switch to a sugar substitute during pregnancy?
- What can I do to stop heartburn?
