Expecting a new addition is a joyous and transformative time in a person’s life. Unfortunately, many expectant mothers find this happy time tainted with feelings of nausea. Morning sickness, which can actually hit at any time, can be the bane of many people’s lives during pregnancy and can counteract the happy, positive feelings that expectant mothers have. Although more research is needed to figure out what causes morning sickness, there are ways you can combat it. Here are a few top tips that can help expectant mothers keep morning sickness at bay.
1. Eat Small, Regular Meals
When morning sickness strikes, the last thing you want is to eat. However, an empty stomach can make feelings of nausea worse. If you’re used to eating three meals a day, break the vicious cycle by eating small, regular meals. Eating something small can help maintain blood sugar levels. Even if you don’t feel like eating a meal at all, try to snack on bland food items to ensure your stomach is always lined. Keep food items, such as plain crackers, on you at all times so that you have something to nibble on wherever you are.
2. Tackle Nausea with Ginger
Ginger is a spice that can be found in some form in most homes nowadays. Many people revert to eating ginger when suffering a wave of nausea. There are plenty of ways you can consume ginger. Those who aren’t fond of the taste can try to quell their nausea with ginger biscuits. It’s also available in ready-made tea bags at most supermarkets. Alternatively, you can enjoy ginger in its raw form by making fresh ginger tea by steeping slices of ginger in hot water. Some people even nibble on small pieces of stem ginger to ward off nausea.
3. Try a Squeeze of Lemon
As you probably already know, many people have strange cravings during pregnancy. If you’re reaching for more sour food items than usual, it could be your body’s way of telling you that you need more citric acid. Citric acid can help reduce feelings of nausea and soothe the stomach. It’s naturally present in citrus fruits, so if you’re experiencing a sour craving, try drinking some lemonade or squeezing some lemon into juice your fruit salad.
4. Ask a Professional
Expectant mothers who are suffering from severe morning sickness should consult a professional. Morning sickness affects many women during pregnancy, however, for some women, it develops into a more serious form of pregnancy sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum. London Pregnancy Clinic employs a team of healthcare professionals who can address your concerns and monitor your health. They can help guide you through your pregnancy journey and give you advice about what to expect. A healthcare professional can even recommend anti-sickness medication to help you deal with your symptoms safely.
5. Try Acupressure
Acupressure is a type of holistic treatment that many people believe can alleviate morning sickness. Some studies suggest that manipulating certain pressure points in the body can reduce nausea, and even help with anxiety. Acupressure can be performed by a trained practitioner. Alternatively, there are a few simple techniques you can try at home.