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Mom's diet & exerciseAvoiding HeartburnAs the uterus expands, it presses against the stomach. Some of the acidic contents of the stomach back up into the esophagus (the food tube) and cause irritation. This may leave you with an unpleasant burning sensation in the throat and chest: heartburn. Pregnancy hormones such as estrogen and progesterone soften the valve that closes off the stomach contents. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may help because the stomach does not fill as much and the food will neutralize the acid. Eating slowly and chewing foods thoroughly will also allow your system to run more smoothly.Many foods can trigger heartburn. Some of the foods to avoid are fatty and spicy foods, coffee, chocolate, spearmint, peppermint, citrus and carbonated beverages. Over the counter antacids are safe to take for heartburn but you should let your physician's office know the type you plan to take beforehand. Your first reaction to this burning sensation may be to lie down. Gravity works against you while lying flat, and helps the stomach acid to back up into your throat. Stand or prop yourself up in bed with pillows. A light midnight snack may help neutralize the acid also. Cigarette smoking and alcohol will also aggravate heartburn, not to mention their already known harmful effects.
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