Heartburn during pregnancy

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Heartburn occurs when the contents of the stomach move into the oesophagus and is a common complaint particularly towards the end of pregnancy. In most cases heart burn is as a result of pressure of the growing baby and ever-expanding uterus on the stomach. Also, changes in hormone levels relax the opening to the oesophagus, allowing stomach contents to escape into the oesophagus.

Follow these handy Good Life tips to manage heartburn during your pregnancy.

Eat 5-6 small, frequent meals throughout the day.

Large meals will put increase pressure on the stomach and worsen heartburn.

If you are overweight, lose weight.

Consult with your dietitian with regards to weight loss during pregnancy.

Do not wear tight-fitting clothes and belts.

Tight clothing increases the pressure on the stomach.

Stay upright after eating a meal for 3 hours.

Do not go to sleep or lie down.

If you smoke, stop smoking.

Nicotine weakens the opening to the oesophagus and increases the likelihood of heartburn. Needless to say, pregnant women should not smoke throughout the duration of their pregnancy, as well as when breastfeeding.

Drink 1 hour before or after a meal, and not during a meal.

Adding fluids to the stomach already full after a meal will expand the stomach further and push stomach contents up through the oesophagus.

Some foods may cause discomfort and should be limited.

• ×     Peppermint and spearmint sweets and tea
• ×     foods high in fat e.g. pies, pastries, cake, Vetkoek, take-aways, fried and deep-fried foods, oily foods
• ×     alcohol
• ×     caffeine e.g. coffee, tea, chocolates, Coke
• ×     spices and sauces: curry, paprika, peri-peri, chilli, tobacco sauce, Worcester sauce
• ×     gas-forming fruits: apples, avocados, melon
• ×     gas-forming vegetables: beans, broccoli, corn, onions, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, spinach

 Decrease the amount of air you swallow when eating.

• -       Eat slowly and chew your food slowly and throughout.
• -       Chew with your mouth closed.
• -       Don’t drink with a straw.
• -       Avoid eating large volumes (amounts) of foods at one time.

 Limit your stress levels.

Excess stress has been shown to relax the oesophageal opening. Each day take time to relax. Run a hot bubble bath, spend time with loved ones, or enjoy a good book in the garden.

 Avoid aspirin (e.g. Dispirin).

Excess aspirin intake damages the lining of the stomach and causes ulcers. If you take aspirin, take it after a meal on a full stomach. As with all medication, check with your doctor first.