The organs of a baby's body are substantially formed during the first 3 months of pregnancy. During this period, the intake of adequate nutrients is extremely important, yet this is the time during which many women experience 'morning sickness' and are unable to eat healthily. Over half of all pregnant women will experience some nausea and vomiting during the first 3 months of pregnancy. This is often called ‘morning sickness’, but it can occur at any time of the day. About 1 in every 100 women can develop the condition called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), when vomiting becomes so frequent and severe that significant weight loss, dehydration and nutrient deficiency will occur.
Dietary Recommendations: Eat small, frequent meals. Eat dry crackers, toast or cereal before getting out of bed or when feeling queasy or nauseous. However some individuals may do better by eliminating carbohydrates altogether until the 12th week. Drink water between meals but not during meals. Wait at least 30 minutes after eating before drinking fluids. When vomiting occurs, take small sips of liquid. Eat foods that are easy to digest such as toast, bagels, crackers, cereal, pasta, rice and potatoes. Avoid greasy or spiced foods. Avoid strong food smells. If nausea and vomiting become severe and protracted, problems may result for both mother and baby. In this instance, medical attention should be sought.
More useful tips:
- Ginger is a traditional cure for nausea, try our ginger tea recipie
- Suck on hard lollies such as barley sugars
- Vitamin B6 supplements have been suggested to improve nausea, take 25-50mg three times a day
- Do not take any medication (even herbal) without consulting your doctor first
- Avoid fatty, spicy or particularly rich or strong flavoured foods
- Make sure you have plenty of fluid, water is best but also try fruit juice, flat lemonade, sports drinks or flavoured sports waters to maintain your blood sugar and sodium levels.
If you have a useful tip for those suffering from morning sickness. Please share it with us on our facebook page: www.facebook.com/clinicians