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The issue of heartburn during pregnancy shouldn't come as any real surprise given the nature of pregnancy. In fact, heartburn can be difficult to avoid for pregnant woman.

There are ways to minimize the incidence of heartburn which should make your pregnancy a much more pleasant experience. In a nutshell, heartburn is is that awful feeling which starts at the pit of the stomach and then rises up through the esophagus leaving a person with an uncomfortable feeling of nausea and a burning sensation which in extreme cases, can be painful.

Changes to the body such as physical and hormonal are conducive to bouts of heartburn. The placenta produces hormone progesterone which can relax the uterus muscles and in turn, this takes pressure off the valve between the esophagus and stomach meaning acid is able to pass back up the stomach. Digestion can also be slowed considerably during this period. The result - heartburn.

The Baby Effect

A growing baby is a miracle of nature in the womb but it can have an impact on the mother's well being. Crowding in her abdominal cavity can push acids bach through the stomach and up the esophagus. This is especially so during the latter months of a pregnancy.

Heartburn really is unavoidable for pregnant women in most instances and while you'll have to live with it, there are ways to ease it's discomfort. The pregnant woman may make a beginning by avoiding foods as well as beverages that result in gastrointestinal distress.
Most common avoidable foods include carbonated drinks, alcohol, caffeine, chocolates, and acidic foods such as citrus fruits as also juices, tomatoes, mustard and vinegar as well as processed meats, mint products and, also spicy and highly seasoned, fried and fatty foods.

Other Ways To Avoid Heartburn During Pregnancy

Here are more suggestions to avoid heartburn during pregnancy:

- Avoid any temptation to eat big meals

- Eat smaller meals at various times of the day

- Avoid smoking and alcohol

- When exercising, avoid bending at the waist and try bending at the knees

- Avoid wearing tight clothing especially around the waist

- Chew gum prior to eating as this stimulates saliva which helps neutralize acids

- Sleep with extra pillows to prop you up during the night which means the body is more elevated and doesn't encourage any acid back up through the stomach.

By following some of the suggestions you will give yourself a good chance of avoiding those heartburn moments and get on with enjoying your pregnancy.