Linda G. Hsieh is a practicing registered dietitian with over
six years experience in clinical practice. Focusing on
prenatal and pediatric nutrition, she has worked as a
nutrition educator for over nine years.
Q:I'm six months pregnant and it seems everything I eat gives me heartburn! Are there certain foods I should avoid? And what can I take to help relieve the heartburn?
A: Heartburn or indigestion is common during pregnancy. This happens because
your uterus is pressing up on your stomach and pushing the natural digestive
acids in your stomach upward. So as you eat foods and liquids, they take up
more space in your stomach, which can exacerbate the problem.
To help relieve indigestion, try the following:
Eat small, frequent meals. For example, five or six small meals a day instead of three large ones.
Avoid foods that cause gas, such as spicy or fried foods.
Don't lie down for at least 30 minutes after eating.
Do not take medications, including antacids, unless your doctor has recommended one for you.
Linda G. Hsieh is a practicing registered dietitian with over
six years experience in clinical practice. Focusing on
prenatal and pediatric nutrition, she has worked as a
nutrition educator for over nine years.
