Natural relief for heartburn in pregnancy.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one the most common medical complaints in pregnant women. Its prevalence has been reported to reach as high as 80% of pregnant mums, with increased likelihood during the second and third trimester! It's common in pregnancy due to hormonal changes that affect the digestive system, and also increasing pressure from the growing belly on the pregnant stomach.

Symptoms of heartburn + reflux may include:

• A burning in your chest or throat.

• An acidic taste in your mouth.

• Nausea.

• A hoarse voice.

• A cough.

My top 4 tips to help address heartburn + reflux:

1. Minimise food + drink triggers. The most common being:

   Caffeine.

   Carbonated drinks.

   Spicy foods.

   Some citrus foods such as tomatoes.

   Gluten + dairy foods have also been noted with some pregnant women.

2. Eat smaller meals regularly + avoid eating late: To allow proper digestion of your food, try to eat small regular meals. When possible, it’s best to space your last meal of the day at least three hours before bedtime.

3. Consider herbal medicine + Tissue Salt remedies if required:

   Slippery elm powder - Helps to coat the lining of the esophagus and stomach, easing acid, and healing the tissue.

   Marshmallow root powder - Works very similarly to slippery elm.

   Tissue Salts such as Nat Phos or Acidity Comb C - Nat Phos is the acid neutralising tissue salt and is present in the blood, muscles, nerve and brain cells. Acidity Comb C contains a combination of tissue salts used to help relieve symptoms of heartburn, gastric reflux & dyspepsia.

4. Sleep propped up

   Use several pillows to create an angle of at least 45 degrees between your head and your bed to reduce reflux if prevalent at nighttime.

What have you found relieved your symptoms during your pregnancy? Let me know below.

References:

1. PMID: 355089892.

2. PMID: 230067683.

3. PMID: 263670234.

4. PMID: 253960055.

5. www.schuesslertissuesalts.com.au

6. PMID: 31598134

*Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.