8 simple changes to cure pregnancy heartburn

Ah heartburn — that horrible feeling in your chest that keeps you from sleeping at night and gives you that constant sour, metallic taste in your mouth. Here are 8 simple methods to curb that!

8 simple changes to cure pregnancy heartburn

So, what can you do without resorting to popping heartburn pills everyday? It just so happens that there are plenty of easy ways to cure pregnancy heartburn without taking endless medications. Here are eight simple lifestyle changes you can try adopting first.

1. Know your trigger

First of all, you should know the main culprits that trigger heartburn, namely fat, citrus foods, spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine and carbonated drinks. We’re not saying, of course, that you have to deny yourself your cravings, but be careful when you eat them — especially if it's close to bedtime. Eating these foods and hitting the sack can definitely increase your chance of having pregnancy heartburn. Try keeping a food journal of what you're eating, when you're eating it and when you're suffering from the heartburn. If you can find a pattern, then you could very well find your solution!

2. Eat smaller meals

The bigger the meal, the more likely you are going to experience acid reflux after, as your digestion is going to be stretched to the max. Unfortunately, this problem is even worse when you’re pregnant because you have slower digestion. Switching to 5 or 6 smaller meals a day will help reduce your chances of pregnancy heart burn.

3. Drink between meals

While it’s good to drink a lot of water, avoid drinking while you’re eating. Doing so increases the volume going into your stomach, which only puts pressure on your digestive valves and allows upward flow of partially digested foods. Take small sips if you need to help you swallow, and then have more water between meals.

4. Don't lie down after a meal

Pregnancy makes you want to nap — a lot — but it’s important not to take your 40 winks too soon after eating. Wait an hour if you can, and if you just can't stay awake, try taking a snooze sitting up. To avoid heartburn at night and get a better night's sleep, avoid eating anything three hours before bedtime.

5. Prop yourself up to sleep

6. Wear loose clothing

If you’re not wearing loose-fitting clothes to adjust to your growing body, this could also be adding to your pregnancy heartburn. Tight clothes, especially around your waste, will only make you more uncomfortable and not help in proper digestion. Switch to some more comfortable clothes — it could really help!

7. Try a breath mint

If you hate that sour taste in your mouth, try chewing on something like a breath mint, piece of gum or gummy bear. The chewing motion helps your mouth produce saliva, which can reduce acid in your esophagus and the minty taste will help eliminate that metallic taste in your mouth.

8. Exercise

It’s important not to forget about exercise during pregnancy. Exercise improves your metabolic rate, which in turn can rev up that sluggish digestion that's so common with pregnancy. You will also maintain a healthier weight, which is an added plus as obesity can also contribute to acid reflux. Plus, exercise releases "happy hormones" and can also help combat those mood swings you have for no reason. Win-win!

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Written by

Lisa Poh-Knight

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