How to Fight Heartburn During Pregnancy

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn, also called acid indigestion or reflux, is a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When you experience heartburn, a muscular valve called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes enough to allow stomach acid to rise up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation that often extends from the bottom of the breastbone to the lower throat. Heartburn may occur at any time during pregnancy, usually during second or third trimester, and often may become worse as the pregnancy progresses [1]. Two major factors come into play:

As the fetus grows, the enlarged uterus can crowd the abdomen, pushing stomach acids upward;

The progesterone produced by the placenta relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus, and also the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach [2].

Controlling Heartburn by Stopping a Few Habits

Alcohol, caffeine and carbonated drinks such as tea, coffee or sodas: they will relax the valve and allow gastric acids to come up.
Food and beverages known to cause gastrointestinal distress: this includes chocolate, tomatoes, citrus, garlic, onions, spicy, fried or fatty foods [3].
Tobacco: In addition to contributing to a host of serious health problems, smoking boosts stomach acidity. Also try to avoid second-hand smoke.

Steps to Minimize the Discomfort Caused by Heartburn

Adopt Pure Hazelwood! Many moms-to-be have testified about how the necklace helped them throughout pregnancy, like this happy lady from St. Lazarre, Quebec : “I am 11 weeks pregnant and since week 6, every hour every day I have suffered from nausea, heartburn and gastric problems that hinder me from functioning properly. I tried crackers, chicken broth, but nothing helped. I discovered Hazelwood necklaces at the pharmacy. I am not big on natural and homeopathic remedies, but I thought I had nothing to lose. I started wearing it that evening and when I woke up the next morning, I was back to my old self and felt great. I hope many women will use it and have the most positive pregnancies they can have, feeling great!”
Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid any tightness around your waist and tummy.
After you eat, give yourself 2 to 3 hours to digest before you lie down. Avoid late-night snacks.
Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily, but avoid drinking too much during meals and before bead.
Eat slowly! Take your time and chew every bite thoroughly.
Eat less and more often. Instead, eat several small meals throughout the day.
Watch your posture : sit straight, and bend at the knees instead of the waist.
When sleeping, raise the head of your bead 6 in. (15 cm) by putting several pillows or a wedge. This will help keep your stomach acids where they belong.