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Constipation In Pregnancy: Natural Remedies
Causes of Constipation in Pregnancy Constipation in pregnancy is caused primarily by the spike in progesterone levels. This hormone is responsible for relaxing a pregnant woman's muscles and ligaments, to make them more pliable for labor. Unfortunately, progesterone also relaxes the intestines, thus causing constipation. This relaxation of the intestines is also necessary: it slows down the digestive process, enabling the pregnant woman's body to absorb more nutrients from the foods she eats. This helps ensure that the developing fetus will receive all the vitamins and minerals it needs. It also helps the pregnant woman to absorb more water, which she needs due to increased blood volume during pregnancy. Another cause of constipation in pregnancy is the iron in prenatal vitamins. Natural Remedies for Constipation in Pregnancy More Water You will need to drink than the usual recommendation of 8 glasses of pure water every day. Ask your health care giver how much water is best for you, depending on your weight. More Fiber Eat more green leafy vegetables, whole grains and fruits. Many pregnant women swear by eating a few pieces of prunes or a serving of old-fashioned oatmeal every day. Prune or apple juice can also be effective. More Exercise Exercise such as walking and yoga can help stimulate the intestines to be less sluggish. Ask a trained yoga instructor for pregnancy-safe yoga poses to relieve constipation. Prenatal Supplements Ask your health caregiver for a different brand of prenatal supplements with a form of iron that does not cause constipation. You should also be getting enough calcium and magnesium - minerals that help ease constipation. Ask your doctor how you can best get the ideal amounts of these nutrients. Homeopathic Remedies Homeopathic remedies are effective and safe. Consult a homeopathic practitioner about the best homeopathic remedy for constipation in pregnancy. Do not attempt to self-treat using homeopathic preparations. Constipation is a normal but uncomfortable and inconvenient part of pregnancy. This doesn't mean that pregnant women just have to put up with it. Nor is it necessary to take laxatives and drug-based treatments that can cause more harm than good. Many natural remedies can safely and effectively relieve constipation in pregnancy. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com Alexis Rodrigo is a certified childbirth educator and runs an information website on natural parenting. To learn more natural ways to relieve pains in pregnancy, go to www.naturalmomsblog.com |
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