10 Ways to Relieve Heartburn Naturally While Pregnant

Pregnancy is a critical stage, demanding utmost care as many medications are off-limits. Home remedies become the go-to option for addressing pregnancy-related issues. Heartburn, a common discomfort, poses a significant concern during this time. It manifests as a fiery sensation in the chest, causing considerable discomfort. Thankfully, several home remedies can effectively alleviate heartburn during pregnancy. Today, we’ll explore 10 such remedies renowned for soothing the stomach and providing relief.

Heartburn during pregnancy is a common discomfort experienced by many expectant mothers

Heartburn is a prevalent concern for many pregnant women, characterized by a burning sensation in the chest and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Addressing this discomfort promptly is important to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Home remedies can be effective in lowering stomach acidity and minimizing acid reflux. However, it’s advisable to consult a doctor before using over-the-counter medications in conjunction with home remedies as a precautionary measure.

10 Natural Ways to Relieve Heartburn While Pregnant

1. Apple cider vinegar (ACV)

Using raw apple cider vinegar as a home remedy for heartburn might seem counterintuitive, given that vinegar consumption can potentially lower stomach acid levels. However, raw apple cider vinegar can actually help increase stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn. Here’s how you can prepare the mixture:

1. Take 1 teaspoon of raw apple cider vinegar.
2. Add 8 ounces of water to it.
3. Mix both ingredients thoroughly.
4. Consume the mixture one hour before meals for optimal results.

2. Coconut Water

Drinking coconut water can be a beneficial remedy for heartburn. Consuming it twice a day, in the morning and evening, can help prevent heartburn and soothe your stomach. Coconut water is a natural and refreshing beverage rich in vitamins and minerals, which aids in naturally absorbing body fluids. Therefore, incorporating coconut water into your diet during pregnancy can be a helpful step in managing heartburn symptoms.

3. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds are commonly utilized to alleviate acidity and are a key component in various digestion-related treatments. They can be consumed as a natural remedy after meals or enjoyed as a snack paired with tea. Another method is to soak fennel seeds in water for approximately 10 minutes and then drink the infused water. This practice is effective in reducing heartburn and alleviating gastrointestinal issues that contribute to the reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus.

4. Ginger

Ginger is widely recognized for its therapeutic properties, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine. It is readily available in most households and is known to alleviate nausea, indigestion, and other common pregnancy-related issues. Ginger is particularly effective in treating heartburn during pregnancy. It can be consumed by steeping it in a cup of water or by chewing it whole to release its juices. Ginger helps regulate many stomach problems during pregnancy. Additionally, ginger can be enjoyed in the form of ginger tea, or combined with other herbs to enhance its benefits for the body.

5. Yogurt or Milk

When experiencing acidity, consuming plain milk or yogurt is often recommended. This is because probiotic foods have the potential to alleviate heartburn and enhance digestion. They also aid in soothing the stomach and preventing the movement of acids into the esophagus region. During pregnancy, you can safely incorporate yogurt and milk into your diet if you experience heartburn. Additionally, you can pair them with rice, nuts, or other suitable alternatives for added relief.

6. Peppermint Leaves

Peppermint is a potent neutralizing agent that effectively treats heartburn. During pregnancy, you can alleviate heartburn by consuming peppermint tea, raw peppermint leaves, or peppermint lozenges. These options not only provide relief but also offer a refreshing and relaxing experience for your body.

7. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a natural healing substance renowned for its multitude of benefits. Obtained from the leaves of the aloe vera plant, it’s crucial to use natural aloe vera instead of commercially available products. Aloe vera can be utilized in various forms for treating heartburn. You can apply it topically on your chest, throat, and abdomen during heartburn episodes, or consume aloe vera juice or the gel itself. Many women opt to ingest or apply aloe vera gel to alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.

8. Grapefruit

Despite its acidic nature, grapefruit can actually aid in alleviating heartburn during pregnancy. This is because grapefruit stimulates the production of bile juices in the body, which helps to calm the digestive system. Once grapefruit is digested, it becomes alkaline, thereby benefiting digestion and addressing issues such as bloating, acid reflux, and flatulence. Consuming one grapefruit after each meal can help reduce heartburn symptoms in your body.

9. Dandelion Tea

Dandelion tea has garnered significant attention recently due to its numerous health benefits and positive effects on the body. It contains anti-microbial compounds that aid in digestion and are effective in treating issues such as heartburn and indigestion. Additionally, dandelion tea serves as a prebiotic drink, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This combined action can help manage heartburn in the chest during pregnancy, making it a worthwhile option to consider.

10. Foods Rich in Enzymes

Lesser-known but potentially beneficial remedies for treating heartburn during pregnancy include incorporating high-enzyme foods into your diet. Foods such as papaya, pineapple, avocados, and bananas contain natural enzymes that aid in breaking down food in a healthy manner. This process assists in reducing the reflux of acids from the esophagus back into the stomach. However, it’s important to consume these high-enzyme foods or fruits in moderation to avoid any potential side effects or complications. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with your doctor before considering this remedy for managing heartburn during pregnancy.