Not all pregnancy mornings start on a happy note courtesy of morning sickness. The unwelcome arrival of the condition can dampen the joy of expectant mothers.
The market is flooded with drugs to cure the waves of nausea, with the discomfort prompting the mothers to seek any available remedy in hopes of finding relief. However, before resorting to over-the-counter medication, you better give these home remedies a chance.
What is morning sickness?
Morning sickness, characterized by feelings of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, can occur at any time of the day or night. While it is most common during the first three months of pregnancy, some individuals may experience it throughout their pregnancy, according to Mayo Clinic.
Below, we have rounded up an array of tried-and-true remedies, vetted and recommended by OB-GYNs, that help provide much-needed relief.
1. Ginger
Ginger is a natural nausea fighter due to its antiemetic properties. It can be consumed in a number of forms, including as a capsule, ginger tea, in its raw form, or as candies. In every which way it, helps to kick out the sick-to-the-stomach feeling,
A 2001 study published in PubMed investigated the effectiveness of ginger in treating nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, and the root proved to be superior to placebo in significantly reducing the severity of nausea and the number of vomiting episodes.
2. Trail mix
Consuming heavy meals can contribute to morning sickness symptoms, so trail mix can be a lighter option for the stomach. It is a convenient snack that can be easily carried and munched on when hunger strikes. A combination of fruits, nuts, and semi-sweet chocolate chips, the trail mix is a satisfying and nutritious option and meets the recommended protein consumption of 60 grams for an adult woman.
3. Adequate hydration
Frequent vomiting can lead to dehydration, due to which increasing the fluid intake is recommended to combat the feeling. To stay hydrated, try alternating between watermelon ice cubes, freezer pops, and glasses of water. Italian ice or lemon slush can also help. Drink fluids between meals to avoid feeling overly full due to slower digestion during pregnancy, and consider small amounts during meals, if necessary. Smoothies can provide essential nutrients, help neutralize stomach acids, and regulate blood sugar levels when solid food is difficult to consume.
4. Sniff some peppermint
Peppermint is considered a good nausea remedy due to its potential benefits in alleviating nausea and fatigue, especially in cases of pregnancy and chemotherapy, as per the Cleveland Clinic. Inhalation of peppermint oil can energize can beat fatigue and promote, but one downside is that it may interfere with sleep if used at night.
5. Vitamin B6
Increasing the intake of vitamin B6 has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of morning sickness, per the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. However, it is important to consult with your OB-GYN before taking any supplements, as the Food and Drug Administration does not require supplements to undergo safety or effectiveness testing before they are sold. Therefore, there is no guarantee that a supplement is safe, contains the listed ingredients, or produces the claimed effects.
6. Saltines
Slightly salty foods like saltine crackers, and electrolyte solutions, can help soothe the stomach and curb the nausea, as per Cleveland Clinic.
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Published by Medicaldaily.com
