Pregnancy
During pregnancy, you might need to avoid pies, curries, white bread, certain medications, and many other foods that cause a quick burning sensation in your stomach.
Jeske Wellmann, a registered dietitian at Mediclinic Sandton, says changing hormones are at the root of these bouts of heartburn. She explains that these hormones make the oesophageal sphincter, a muscle at the top of your stomach, relax. This allows stomach acid to move up into your oesophagus. The problem gets worse as your uterus grows and pushes against your stomach, which is why heartburn is often at its worst during the third trimester.
Apart from the burning sensation in your chest that sometimes reaches up into your throat, you may also burp more than usual and feel bloated. Severe symptoms include feeling anxious, sweating, and feeling dizzy.
Fortunately, many of these symptoms can be quickly treated with over-the-counter antacids. If the heartburn is more severe, your doctor might prescribe an H2 blocker or proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce the production of stomach acid.
However, making small lifestyle adjustments can also help. Jeske suggests eating small, regular meals since large meals can trigger heartburn, and increasing your fluid intake between meals. It might make sense to eat your last meal a few hours before going to bed, as you should avoid lying down for at least three hours after eating. Eating slowly can also help, as well as wearing loose clothing.
Your heartburn might get worse after eating certain foods, like fatty, greasy, or creamy items such as sauces, chips, crisps, and fatty meats. Caffeine, soft drinks, onions, spicy foods, and citrus can also make it worse. However, foods like yoghurt and milk, ginger, honey, and chewing gum can help soothe heartburn.
Even though heartburn is common, don’t hesitate to ask a healthcare professional for advice if you're worried – especially if you’re experiencing symptoms like severe headaches, changes in bowel movements, chest or arm pain, vision difficulties, breathing issues, or swelling in your face, arms, and legs. Remember that during pregnancy, your health and peace of mind are crucial, and your doctor is there to help you feel your best.