When you are expecting a baby and you are interested in the thought: is prune juice bad for pregnancy. You will discover numerous beneficial facts on this kind of topic, as well as tips, assistance, ideas, and answers to help questions around pregnancy, correct nutrition and diet plans.
Constipation is a very common intestinal condition in pregnancy. Although easily treatable, it can sometimes become a very uncomfortable problem.
Infrequent or infrequent bowel movements, sensation of hard stools, abdominal pain. If you are pregnant, it is quite likely that you have already experienced these three familiar symptoms of constipation .
The causes? It seems that they are actually somewhat varied: from hormonal changes to the pressure of the uterus itself, also going through the consumption of iron-based vitamin supplements (which we can find in most prenatal vitamins).
Why is constipation so common in pregnancy, and why are you?
It’s something we’ve actually told you about on other occasions. Constipation is extremely common in pregnancy . In fact, according to a study published in the specialized journal ‘ Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica ‘ ‘, it is estimated that three out of four pregnant women will experience constipation -or other problems intestinal – at some point during the pregnancy.
About its causes, an increase in the hormone progesterone seems to be one of the main ones, since it tends to cause the relaxation of the body’s muscles, among which are the intestines. Thus, the necessary contractions to help the movement of the stool are not made.
This translates into slowing down of the intestines , so that the slower movement of these organs produces a somewhat slower digestion. And all of this can lead to constipation.
The pressure caused by the growth of the uterus in turn causes pressure on the intestines, which can delay the ability to empty . While the iron supplements that many pregnant women take to prevent anemia are another common culprit.
Although it is a common problem that can be easily treated (there are a large number of remedies available), when it comes to pregnancy the number of solutions is reduced, since it will only be possible to consume those remedies or medications that are safe during pregnancy, and that do not put the health, evolution and normal development of the fetus at risk.
What can be taken to relieve constipation in pregnancy
1. Opt for foods rich in fiber
Following a diet that is too low in fiber may be responsible for having a slower intestinal transit. And if we also add pregnancy (with hormonal changes, an enlarged uterus and iron supplements), the consequences may be even more evident.
Therefore, an excellent help is to choose to consume foods that are especially rich in fiber , which is very useful because it helps to add volume and softness to the stool. While soluble fiber absorbs water and binds with fatty acids to form a gelatinous substance that keeps stools soft, insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water, providing volume and moisture.
The result? Both types of fiber are excellent as they directly help relieve constipation. But beware: too much fiber, and also consuming it too quickly, can increase discomfort , causing bloating and gas.
The most appropriate thing is to increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits slowly, opting for a fiber consumption of between 20 to 25 grams per day.
And what are the most suitable foods? Take note:
- Fruits: Peaches, raspberries, apples, apricots, strawberries, figs, plums, raisins and prunes.
- Vegetables: Virtually all, including leaves, stems and roots. Although the Brussels sprouts and carrots stand out above all, which you can include in delicious salads or as a garnish.
- Whole grains: They include oats, brown rice, whole wheat, rye, barley, and quinoa. So stay away from white rice and white flour.
- Seeds: Chia and flax seeds stand out.
- Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, soybeans and white beans.
2. Some useful (and safe) natural remedies
Not all home remedies are safe or harmless, especially during pregnancy, a very important stage in which the future mother must take extreme precautions.
dried plums and dried figs are tremendously useful when it comes to relieving constipation in a totally natural way. And, in addition, they stand out for being completely safe foods.
Basically you have to leave three dried plums (you can substitute for dried figs) to soak in a cup of water overnight. Then, the next morning and on an empty stomach, eat them for breakfast. If you wish, you can also drink the resulting liquid.
3. Stay well hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential during pregnancy . This could mean that you would have to double your water consumption during pregnancy.
As many nutritionists recommend, pregnant women should drink at least eight glasses of water a day. An excellent natural solution against constipation, as it will help the intestines to stay soft, and the stool to move more smoothly through the digestive tract.
4. Avoid large meals and distribute them better
Big or too copious meals tend to overload the stomach, making it difficult for the digestive system to be able to process everything you’ve eaten.
Therefore, it is best to try to eat small meals . And, in addition, divide your daily food intake into five or six smaller meals . This will be helpful in relieving constipation by allowing the stomach to digest food without having to work “overtime”.
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