The Ayurveda Experience Blog
In early pregnancy, gas during pregnancy is hard to avoid. Before the uterus is big enough to crowd the intestines, pregnancy hormones are hard at work. The increase in progesterone slows digestion down, providing more time for gas to be produced.
The body responds by expelling the embarrassing gas and burps. This gas can also lead to a feeling of bloating, especially after a large meal. Because of an enlarged uterus, the intestines are shifted and crowded in the abdomen which slows down the digestion even more.
As a general rule, gas during pregnancy is common and practically difficult to subside. Still there are few thing that you can do to tackle gas during pregnancy.
Gas During Pregnancy: What You Can Do
1. Try smaller, more frequent meals.
2. Exercise.
Physical activity and exercise should be a part of your daily routine. At least keep moving after each meal. Not only can exercise help keep you physically and emotionally fit, it can also help prevent constipation and speed up digestion. Make sure to check with your obstetrician before exercising.
3. Drink plenty of water.
If possible drink water boiled with cumin seeds which improves digestion and prevents gas formation.
4. Watch what food you eat.
Try to avoid food which causes gas. Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, wheat, and potatoes are common gas culprits. Rice is the only starch that does not cause gas. Try fitting 25 to 30 grams of high-fiber foods into your diet to help ease gas concerns. Fruits like prunes, figs, and bananas, as well as vegetables and whole grains like oats and flax meal are all good fiber-boosters to consider.
5. Avoid artificial sweeteners, carbonated drinks and fatty fried foods.
6. Under situations of severe gas, a small piece of jaggery will help relieve it.
Jaggery is a natural sweetener available at Indian markets and grocery stores.
7. Have dinner at least 2 hours before going to sleep to avoid disturbed sleep due to gas.
It is important to have food which provides nutrients to the developing baby as he or she grows. Gas has nothing to do with the baby during pregnancy. If you experience severe pain without improvement for more than 30 minutes, seek immediate medical attention.
