Home Remedies

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Common Discomforts

 

Morning Sickness or Nausea

“Morning sickness” means feeling sick, and/or actually vomiting or throwing up. It can happen any time during the day. It often happens in early pregnancy (first trimester). The smell or taste of some foods may make you feel sick. Some non-food odours such as perfume or smoke can make you feel sick as well. This is different for everyone. Here are some ideas that may help:

• Eat foods that appeal to you.
• Eat crackers or dry toast before you get out of bed. Get lots of rest.
• Change position slowly, especially when standing or sitting up.
• Eat a healthy snack before you go to bed.
• Drink fluids between meals, not with meals.
• Greasy, fried foods or spicy foods may not agree with you.
• Eat cold meals like sandwiches if cooking smells bother you.
• Open windows to freshen the air.
• Get help from others to prepare meals if possible.

Heartburn

Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest and throat. It is caused by food mixed with stomach acids backing up from the stomach.

• Eat small amounts of food more often. Eat slowly and chew foods well.
• Spicy foods, fatty or fried foods, coffee and tea can make heartburn worse. Avoid any food or drink that bothers you.
• Do not lie down for two hours after eating.
• Check with your doctor before taking antacids or other mixtures to relieve heartburn.
• Use extra pillows to raise your head and shoulders in bed.

Constipation

Constipation is caused by the slowing down of your digestive system. The growing baby may also put pressure on your bowel. To ease constipation:

• Drink at least 8-12 glasses of fluid per day. Eat regularly.
• Eat more high fibre foods such as vegetables, fruit, dried fruit, whole grain breads and cereals, nuts, seeds, dried peas and beans.
• Exercise every day. Walking for at least 20 minutes will help.
• Talk to your doctor if the problem continues.

Food Cravings or Distastes

You may have cravings for certain foods. Indulge a little but don’t let cravings upset your healthy eating. Some women may crave dirt, clay, starch, ashes, mothballs or other non-food items. If you have these cravings talk with your doctor, or dietitian.

Leg Cramps

If you get a cramp in your calf, straighten your leg and bend your ankle and toes slowly towards your knee. Wearing support hose during the day or resting with your feet up may help prevent the cramps. Diet or lack of calcium is rarely the cause of leg cramps. Talk to your doctor if the problem continues.