MORNING SICKNESS

Morning sickness can be so incredibly debilitation and for some women, e.g. with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), it can be worse than childbirth itself!

Some tips to manage morning sickness include:

• Eat slowly

• Avoid strong smells and tastes

• Eat outside where possible, in fresh air

• Brush teeth after meals – peppermint flavoured toothpaste can be helpful

• Consume small meals frequently – have a small snack on hand next to bed for overnight if required

• It can be helpful to eat something small and dry in the mornings, in bed, before you sit up – e.g. a gluten free cracker

• Make sure you are maintaining hydration – smoothies can be helpful. Try to drink most liquids away from your meals and take small sips frequently rather than large volumes every few hours.

• Homemade ice blocks made from fresh fruit and vegetable juice can be helpful, or made with a base of coconut water (helpful to replenish electrolytes)

• Try to avoid skipping meals – blood sugar dips can exacerbate nausea

• Include protein with every meal and snack – this is especially important in the evenings

• Remove all caffeine entirely

• Ginger in any way, shape, or form: tea, powder, syrup, fresh root, ginger ale, crystalised ginger, GF ginger biscuits (homemade if possible)

• You can also make a ginger tea with 1/2 tsp grated ginger steeped in hot water for 5-10 minutes

• Vitamin B6 can be helpful – please speak to us regarding the best brand and dose for you as an individual

• Stress management is essential – yoga, meditation, breath work, counselling and massage can all be useful in regulating the stress response

Working prior to conceiving to optimise health and nutrient status can be helpful in the prevention of morning sickness.

For naturopathic pregnancy and prenatal appointments please email hello@bridgetbnaturopathy.com