Constipation during pregnancy is a common ailment. Constipation can be particularly severe in the first trimester. As this is when baby is most vulnerable to outside influences, most medications are out of the question. Luckily, there are several natural cures for constipation during pregnancy that are both safe and effective. These small changes can make big improvements in your comfort.
Make Dietary Changes
The safest natural cure for constipation during pregnancy involves modifying your diet to include additional fiber and water. Fiber helps the body to digest foods quickly, easily and completely. The USDA recommends getting at least 25 grams of fiber a day to stay regular. The major sources of fiber include: beans, legumes, lentils, fruit, vegetables and whole grain breads and cereals. Additionally, water helps digestion by lubricating the intestines and softening stools. While this solution has long-lasting results, it is not instant. It can take several hours or days to begin taking effect.
Avoid Too Much Iron
Iron is crucial to the proper development of your growing baby. At one point in time, women were prone to iron deficiencies during pregnancy. However, most women now get more than enough iron from diet alone. Nonetheless, some physicians still prescribe an iron supplement before testing a woman’s iron levels. Taking an iron supplement frequently results in severe constipation. To avoid this problem, discuss possible testing and options your physician can provide rather than iron supplements.
Listen to Your Body
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, one of the most common causes of constipation comes from simply ignoring the urge to defecate. Knowing that constipation is so prevalent in the first trimester of pregnancy, use the most natural cure for constipation and simply have a bowel movement right when you feel the need. Putting off bathroom needs may start a cycle of constipation that could have been avoided.
Participate in Light Exercise
Rigorous exercise during pregnancy may injure a baby and is, obviously, a bad idea during any stage of pregnancy. However, the American Pregnancy Association informs mothers that moderate exercise is still advisable throughout any normal pregnancy. Moderate exercise, an hour or more a week, helps ward off constipation during pregnancy by stimulating the bowels. Some exercise can even provide instant results in relieving constipation. If you are having difficulty getting stool to pass, simply sway your hips all around gently. This action will not hurt your baby but it will work to activate a sluggish colon.
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