Why do we get abdominal bloating during pregnancy and how can we get rid of this bloating? Belly bloating is a very common and normal occurrence for pregnant mothers, so don't worry at all! Of course, we know that this topic can bother some pregnant mothers. You may not believe it, but by following a few simple tips, you can greatly improve the situation and reduce abdominal bloating during pregnancy. Stay with us to fully explain everything to you.
What causes abdominal bloating in pregnancy?
As a mother, your body undergoes many changes during pregnancy, and one of these changes is more gas production and pregnancy bloating.
Belly bloating in pregnancy has several different reasons, but one of the main reasons is the hormone progesterone. When you are pregnant, the mother's body naturally produces more progesterone to nurture the fetus. Progesterone is definitely necessary and good for pregnancy, but progesterone relaxes the muscles in your body, including the muscles in your intestines. Because of this, digestion slows down. This causes more gas to be produced and accumulated in the body, which in turn leads to bloating, flatulence or flatulence.
But apart from this, the weight of the fetus and the increase in the volume of the uterus are also (indirectly) another reason for abdominal bloating in pregnancy; As the fetus and uterus get bigger and occupy more space, more pressure is applied to the digestive system and this can lead to abdominal bloating.
Your nutrition is also important. Certain foods may cause more gas in the digestive tract, such as legumes or vegetables. The last reason can be inactivity that causes bloating for everyone.
What foods cause bloating for pregnant women?
The foods you eat and the beverages you drink also affect gas production. Foods and foods that cause bloating in pregnancy include spicy foods, fried foods, processed foods (such as fast food), fatty foods, dairy products, carbonated beverages, and many fruits and vegetables.
But interestingly, it's not just unhealthy foods that produce gas! But many healthy foods may also make you bloated, such as beans, peas, lentils, broccoli, etc.
But sometimes the reason for bloating can be a quick change in diet. For example, if you suddenly start eating a diet rich in fiber and full of healthy fruits and vegetables, these foods may be new to your body and produce a lot of gas in the digestion process and you may experience bloating. Foods that cause gas and flatulence include:
- Raffinose sugar: Beans, peas, lentils and some vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and asparagus. All of these contain the sugar raffinose, which causes gas and bloating in many people.
- Fructose sugar: This sugar is naturally present in some foods such as leeks, onions, artichokes, dried fruit, ketchup, pears, apples, honey, wheat and fruit juice.
- A series of carbohydrates: Some starches, such as wheat and corn, cause bloating in some people, and for a pregnant mother, these items produce even more bloating.
- dairy products: People with lactose intolerance experience gas, diarrhea and stomach pain when they eat dairy products. In this situation, try lactose-free milk or calcium-enriched soy milk, or almond milk.
- Fatty and fried foods: This type of food takes much longer to digest, which means your colon is more likely to produce gas and bloating. Therefore, to prevent pregnancy bloating, you should take good care of your diet.
How can eating habits cause bloating?
Another important thing about bloating during pregnancy is the way you eat. If you eat too much, eat too fast, or don't chew your food well, or talk too much between meals, you may swallow air and develop bloating.
Signs and symptoms of bloating in pregnancy
Accumulation of excess gas can cause some of the following symptoms in a pregnant mother:
- Pain and feeling of pressure in the abdomen
- Pain in the chest
- Constant wind sensation
- Abdominal cramps
- Indigestion
What week does bloating start in pregnancy?
Although bloating is unpleasant during pregnancy, you should know that you should expect it from the first weeks to the end of nine months! It is even possible that this state will become worse and more intense in the last months. Of course, pregnancy bloating can be controlled, and in the rest of this article, we will tell you how to control it.
When should I worry about abdominal bloating during pregnancy and see a doctor?
Despite the fact that bloat is unpleasant and annoying and long, at least you have the peace of mind that it won't harm your little angel! But if you also have severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, or bloody stools, it is better to talk to your doctor as soon as possible; Because these cases may be a sign of a serious disease and problem.
How to reduce abdominal bloating during pregnancy?
Although the accumulation of gas and abdominal bloating during pregnancy is a natural occurrence for you and there is nothing wrong or embarrassing, but because it is unpleasant, you must seek to fix it. Now we introduce several ways to minimize abdominal bloating or reduce its discomfort.
Drink more water!
Water and fluids keep your body hydrated and prevent constipation. Reduce the consumption of carbonated and sugary drinks such as soft drinks and carbonated buttermilk.
Use a cup or glass!
Drinking water from a bottle or through a straw causes you to swallow air and cause bloating in your digestive tract. Therefore, to prevent bloating during pregnancy, use cups and glasses.
Eat slowly!
While eating or drinking liquids, take your time and enjoy your food. When you eat something in a hurry, you eat air with every bite! And all these airs become flatulence.
Reduce the consumption of carbonated foods!
Some foods, such as cabbage and beans, produce more gas. Sweet, fried, spicy or fatty foods can also cause gas and bloating. Avoid any food that caused you bloating before, because your body becomes more sensitive during pregnancy.
Try mint or ginger tea!
Both peppermint and ginger help reduce indigestion and upset stomach.
Have a healthy diet!
Many healthy foods can cause gas, so cut down on flatulent foods as much as you can to avoid discomfort.
Exercise and be active!
Physical activity during pregnancy is beneficial for digestion and reduces constipation and bloating. A short walk or light pregnancy yoga can help relieve pregnancy bloating.
Add fiber to your diet little by little!
Fiber is good for your digestive system and reduces bloating for several reasons, but the important thing is to add fiber to your diet little by little; Because suddenly adding a lot of fiber to foods stimulates gas production.
Foods that are high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you have chronic constipation, ask your doctor for advice.
Maintain a healthy weight!
There is nothing wrong with gaining weight during pregnancy (and it is normal and necessary), but try to follow your doctor's instructions in this regard. If you gain more weight than necessary, it will put pressure on your digestive system and give you pregnancy bloat.
Wear comfortable clothes!
Wear comfortable clothes that do not put pressure on your stomach. Tight pants or tight belts can put pressure on the intestines and increase your discomfort.
Do not chew gum!
Chewing gum can cause you to swallow air. In addition, some artificial sweeteners in chewing gum can also cause bloating and gas in the stomach.
Control your stress!
Feeling uncomfortable or worried can slow down the digestion process and cause gas and bloating. Pregnancy yoga, deep breathing, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help relieve anxiety and stress. If you find stress or anxiety difficult to handle during pregnancy (or at any time), talk to a professional counselor.
final word
Abdominal bloating is a common condition among pregnant mothers and you don't have to worry about it, but fortunately there are several strategies to prevent and treat abdominal bloating during pregnancy. In this article, we explained the causes of pregnancy bloating and introduced the best ways to treat it.
References: verywellfamily – medicalnewstoday
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