The phrase ‘morning sickness’ is actually a misnomer, as many women experience nausea at any time of the day and night. Some even experience nausea at all times of the day and night! Anyway, regardless of what you call it and what time of the day you experience it, here are some tips for relieving the symptoms.
Make Sure You Never Have an Empty Stomach
If you’re feeling nauseous and you’re vomiting, then the last thing you probably feel like doing is eating. However unlike any normal stomach upset, morning sickness will be made worse with a lack of food.
So, try to eat little and often. Bland foods will probably sit better, such as rice cakes and bananas. Thought to be especially good for morning sickness, is ginger – so anything with ginger in it is a great idea.
Eat Before You Get Up
The reason it’s called morning sickness, is because it can be much worse in the mornings. One tip to avoid that terrible rush of nausea when you get up, is to actually eat something before you lift a foot out of bed. Keep a small box of crackers, rice cakes or cookies by the bed and nibble on one, before pulling yourself upright.
A Few Natural Stomach Soothers
As mentioned, ginger is a great natural remedy for nausea, other things include licorice and peppermint. However, it is important to get natural sources of these things, because artificial flavors won’t help at all.
Ginger, licorice and peppermint are all available as herbal teas, which can replace less healthy drinks, such as coffee and soda, throughout the day.
Make Sure You’re Getting Enough Protein
Foods that are high in protein are great, because they release energy slowly, helping to keep your blood sugar regulated. Spikes in blood sugar, caused by some carbs, will make your nausea worse.
So, protein rich foods, especially for breakfast, are a must for pregnant women. Try scrambled egg or peanut butter on toast. It’s possible that a protein shake would work, too. However, the more ‘natural’ sources of goodness, the better.
Drink Plenty of Water
It’s important, especially if you’ve been vomiting, that you keep hydrated. You might not feel like drinking, but regular sips of water are a good idea. As mentioned above, ginger, peppermint or licorice teas are great. You might also like to consider fruit juices or smoothies, but anything with lots of added refined sugar is best avoided.
Steer Clear of Strong Smells
Anything with a particular pungent odor is likely to turn your stomach. So, you might like to change your shampoo, shower gel and laundry soap etc., in favor of milder scented brands.
When it comes to food, try to avoid spending a lot of time bending over a stove. Instead, try raw meals, like salads, or microwave soups and/or meals that can be baked in the oven. Whatever you decide to do food-wise, make sure you’re getting plenty of nutrients.
I can’t promise that these steps will cure your morning sickness, but, with a little luck, they will make it more bearable.
