Heartburn in Pregnancy

Many women experience an acidic burning or heat in the throat or esophagus especially during the last half of pregnancy. This is due to the hormones, progesterone and relaxin. Progesterone is responsible for slowing down digestion; this allows the body to extract as many nutrients from the food as possible. Relaxin is responsible for relaxing muscles, ligaments, and tissues. This hormone can soften the esophageal sphincter. When pressure is applied, as from a full stomach, it may open allowing food mixed with stomach acid to come up into the throat.

Here are several home remedies that have been proven to alleviate this common problem. It is best to avoid antacids, such as Tums, Rolaids or Alka-Seltzer (which contains aspirin and should never be used), as they neutralize the stomach acids and arrest digestion. This can increase acid production creating more heartburn. You are now in a vicious cycle and the only way to end it is for the food in your stomach to digest. Antacids are also not the best source of calcium, and are not easily assimilated by the body.

1. Eat small meals frequently throughout the day. Try not to "stuff yourself", this can place pressure on the esophageal sphincter.
   
2. Avoid drinking liquids while eating, especially cold liquids. Rather, drink one-half hour before and after eating. Have your drink be warm or room temperature and avoid carbonation with meals.
   
3. Avoid greasy, spicy and processed foods. Try cooling foods like cucumbers, yogurt and sour cream.
   
4. Eat digestive enzymes before, with, or after meals. You can find these at your local health food stores. They can help to prevent indigestion and heartburn by aiding the body in processing your meal.

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