Natural Remedies During Pregnancy
Here are a handful of natural remedies for some of the common symptoms of pregnancy. (If you are having medical problems, please contact your primary caregiver!!)
MORNING SICKNESS
DRINK MORE WATER!!! (half of your body weight in oz.)
eat small, frequent, bland meals and snacks
- crackers
- fresh fruit
- raw almonds
- cold chicken
- whole grain toast
increase your protein intake (80-100 grams daily!)
avoid greasy foods
raspberry leaf and chamomile teas
vitamin B6 supplements or B6-rich foods
- bananas
- brown rice
- lean meats, poultry, fish
- avocados
- whole grains
- corn
- nuts
reduce stress, extra rest – take a nap!!
avoid vigorous exercise
HEADACHE
DRINK MORE WATER!!!!
warm, relaxing bath
massage
tension reducing exercises (such as shoulder circling)
relaxation exercises
hot or cold packs on the back of the neck
HEARTBURN
eat slowly
keep your head elevated
eat small, frequent meals and snacks
CONSTIPATION
DRINK MORE WATER!!!!
use a footstool on the toilet (go for a squatting position)
eat plenty of fresh fruit
eat high-fiber foods
moderate exercise/walking
BACKACHE
get plenty of rest
back massage
hot/cold packs
TROUBLE SLEEPING
get plenty of exercise/walking
warm bath
warm milk or tea before bed
massage
quiet, soothing music
COLD/COUGH/ALLERGIES
DRINK MORE WATER!!!!
LOCAL honey
hot tea with lemon
cool-mist vaporizer
saline nose drops
get plenty of rest
AVOID DURING PREGNANCY:
Tetracycline (commonly prescribed antibiotic; may slow bone growth)
Over-the-counter medications including:
- antacids
- decongestants
- cough medicines
- sleep medications
- headache remedies
- aspirin
- ibuprofen
carpet shampoo
lawn chemicals
cleaning solvents
pesticides
x-rays
caffeine
cat litter
hard alcohol
cigarette smoke (including secondhand)