Heartburn and Pregnancy.

Most pregnant women experience some degree of heartburn during their pregnancy, often towards the end when that sweet little baby is making its presence known!  For some, it's a mild inconvenience after a large meal, for others it's more bothersome making sleeping and eating an unpleasant chore.In my practice, I try to work with food first, and then use herbs and supplements as needed to control this common pregnancy symptom.  I recommend using prescription acid-blockers as a last resort as they can interfere with the absorption of crucial vitamins and minerals including calcium, iron and B12.Diet

• Eat small meals frequently.  Many Moms-to-be find that eating 4-6 smaller meals works better than 3 larger meals.
• Avoid greasy, fried foods.
• Be mindful of common heartburn triggers including coffee (and caffeine), peppermint, citrus, tomato and spicy foods.
• Chew your food well - let the enzymes present in saliva do their work!
• Don't drink large quantities of fluids with meals.
• Try finishing your meals with pineapple or papaya, which naturally contain digestive enzymes.

Herbs and SupplementsIf the above dietary suggestions don't work, talk to a Naturopathic Doctor about using herbs and other supplements to get your hearburn under control. There are a number of safe, effective option available for pregnant mothers.Dr. Jenn maintains a family-centered Naturopathic practice in Dartmouth, NS. She enjoys working with people of all ages, and has a special interest in women and children’s health, including pre-conception, fertility (IUI/IVF support) and pregnancy.