Roots Birth & Women’s Health
Heartburn During Pregnancy
What can I do?
- Eat smaller portions, more frequently
- Drink liquids in between meals, instead of at the same time as meals
- Avoid common triggers like spicy, greasy, and fatty foods, as well as chocolate and caffeine
- Stay upright for 1-3 hour after meals
- Go on a walk after meals
- Try to gain the recommended amount of weight during your pregnancy
- Avoid constricting clothing, like tight waistbands
- Elevate your upper body when you are lying down (try putting blocks under the head of your bed, use pillows, or sleep in a recliner
What are some natural remedies?
- Peppermint Tea (Try taking sips during heartburn attacks and after meals)
- Chamomile Tea (Try taking sips during heartburn attacks and after meals)
- Baking Soda and Water (Only use this in moderation: dissolve ½-1 tsp of baking soda per glass of water)
- Ginger (Can have in tea, use in cooking, or chewing on a fresh piece)
- Celery Sticks
- Raw Almonds
- Apple Cider Vinegar (1-2 tsp at a time, it can also be mixed with honey or with mustard)
- Mustard (1-2 spoonfuls, it takes 1-2 minutes to work)
- Pickle Juice
- Pineapple
- Yogurt or Milk
- Lemon Juice (1 tsp lemon juice in ½ glass of water)
- Slippery Elm Lozenges (2-4 at a time)
- Marshmallow Root (1 cup of tea twice a day. To make the tea, steep 1 tbsp of marshmallow root in 1 cup of water for 30min, then strain and drink. You can also take 2 capsules 2-4x daily)
- Chewing Gum
- Papaya Enzymes
- Fennel Seeds
- Coconut Water
Medications
- Antacids
- Tums are best, avoid Alka-Seltzer
- Don’t take antacids at the same time as your prenatal vitamin or iron supplements
- Talk to your provider about prescriptions if you need them, there are many safe options!