Heartburn is a common problem in pregnant women. The hormone progesterone that helps in supporting healthy pregnancy is also responsible for relaxing the stomach valve, which pushes up the stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to heartburn. Moreover, the growing uterus exerts pressure on the stomach, which worsens heartburn especially in late pregnancy. However, heartburn during pregnancy can be easily treated with simple home remedies that are safe for pregnant women.
The Following Remedies Are Considered Effective In Providing Relief From Heartburn During Pregnancy:
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is a wonderful remedy for fighting heartburn, nausea and indigestion during pregnancy. According to studies, unlike conventional acid-blockers, ginger does not suppress production of stomach acid, which is essential for breaking down the foods that we eat. Instead, it helps in easing digestion that helps in providing relief from acid reflux naturally. However, drink ginger tea sparingly if you have any bleeding problem.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum can also help in preventing heartburn during pregnancy. The chewing movement induces saliva production. Saliva works as a natural antacid. It neutralizes the stomach acid that enters the gullet, thereby providing fast relief from heartburn.
Fennel Seed Tea
Fennel seed tea is an effective remedy for heartburn during pregnancy. It helps in fighting heartburn by reducing gastrointestinal tract spasms that force the stomach acid to flow into the gullet. Fennel seeds also act as digestive aid and helps in providing fast relief from indigestion. Simmer two to three teaspoons of crushed fennel seeds in a cup of water for 5 to 10 minutes. Drink the tea to fight heartburn.
Milk and Honey
Mix a tablespoon of honey with a glass of milk and drink it to reduce heartburn. Milk helps in neutralizing the stomach acid. The milk and honey mixture also forms a protective coating that helps in reducing the irritation and protects the esophagus from the corrosive effect of the stomach acid.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Acid reflux can also be a sign of insufficient production of stomach acid. Apple cider vinegar helps in restoring the normal acidic environment in the stomach that helps in improving digestion, inhibiting growth of pathogens in the stomach and treating acid reflux. Mix one to two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink to reduce heartburn.
