Nausea during pregnancy can strike at any time of day, but it is often worst in the mornings…. What a way to start the day in good form! These remedies will work with varying success, depending on the woman, but a few simple tips should give you some relief and reduce nausea. Here are a few!
1) The importance of eating
If your stomach is empty, nausea won’t be long popping its ugly head up. To avoid this, don’t leave the house in the morning without having eaten something small (even just a biscuit, or some toast). It’s also a good idea to have a snack to hand at all times, to never be taken by surprise hunger pangs. Eating little and often (every 3 hours) can also maintain steady blood sugar levels. Be careful not to go too far either, your stomach shouldn’t be TOO full.
2) What to eat?
Look for foods that contain proteins and that are rich in Vitamin B (like walnuts and hazelnuts, which make super snacks). Avoid very rich, spicy or fatty foods, as well as vinegars and fried foods. Prioritise foods rich in carbohydrates such as toast, bananas, whole-grains, muesli, pasta…. You may also like to opt for cold meals, to avoid exposure to cooking odours. Foods rich in zinc and Vitamin B6 also have anti-nausea effects… just something to be aware of! Finally, bear in mind that ginger can take care of your stomach if you consume it in small quantities, such as in tea, crushed in food or in capsule form….
3) Keep a journal of when you become nauseous
Identify the worst and best times of day to eat and drink.
4) Hydration
In terms of drinking, don’t force yourself to drink during meals if you have difficulty keeping down liquids. In effect, the mix of solids and liquids can amplify the sensation of feeling too full. On the other hand, be sure to drink enough throughout the day, in between meals, because hydration is very important during pregnancy. Otherwise drinking very cold drinks with plenty of ice cubes can provide relief. Some people find relief from fizzy drinks like regular coca cola (with caffeine and sugar) or sparkling water. Furthermore, drinking a large glass of water with lemon when you wake up can do you the world of good.
5) Adopt good habits
Air your bedroom to have fresh air going through it (even in winter, open the window a little).
Try to get good rest by sleeping well and taking naps. Stress and fatigue can increase nausea. Take the time to relax. If you want to take a nap after eating, wait at least an hour before lying down.
6) Smells and scents
We often think that smells and odours are our worst enemies during pregnancy. However, inhaling citrus scents can relieve nausea. You can also put a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil on a tissue or handkerchief and keep it within arm’s reach for rapid relief. Strong mint is also great, especially in the form of chewing gum.
7) Acupuncture bracelets such as Sea Band Mama
Simply put them two or three finger-lengths below the wrist line to see an improvement in nausea.
Sources : Baby-Center ; TopSanté ; Millenial-Moms/Youtube ; Famili