They call it “morning sickness” but the term is quite misleading considering that it can come at any time of the morning, afternoon or middle of the night. It’s pretty much inevitable unless your one of the few lucky ones to escape it. I wasn’t, the first few months of both of my pregnancies were pretty tough. I constantly felt tired and nauseous, I lost my appetite, just the smell of some foods would have me running to the bathroom. My second pregnancy was even worse as I had a toddler to run after, I was beyond exhausted.There is no real “cure” for morning sickness, but there are things that you can do that can ease the symptoms. Here are a few tips:
1. GET PLENTY OF REST
It sounds simple, and it is, just rest. Ensure you get a good night’s sleep and take naps during the day. Stress and tiredness makes morning sickness worst, so try to get plenty of rest and try to relax when possible. If you have older children, ask for help from friends and relatives.
2. SNACK INSTEAD OF EATING FULL MEALS
Morning sickness can be worse on an empty stomach so it is important that you eat, even if the thought of food makes you feel sick or nauseous. Instead of eating large full meals which may make you feel full and bloated, try snacking throughout the day. Eating small amounts often can help keep your sugar levels at a good level. Keep a stash of crackers, nuts, dried fruits, or whatever you can stomach, around at all times so that you always have something to nibble on. Also try to always have something small before getting out of bed in the morning and something just before you go to sleep.
3. KEEP HYDRATED
Fluid intake is important for good health in general and especially important when pregnant. The more dehydrated you are, the more nauseated you will become so even if you don’t feel like it, try to drink small sips. Sucking ice cubes can be an alternative, and if you really can’t take it, add some honey or fruit juice to add flavour.
4. GINGER GINGER AND MORE GINGER
Ginger is not just an old wives tale, it is a popular remedy for any nausea symptoms including morning sickness. Making a ginger tea, sipping ginger ale, or eating ginger biscuits may help to sooth your stomach.
5. PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Though it may seem like the last thing you want to do when you have morning sickness, getting up and active can actually have a positive effect. Not only can it get you distracted, but it can help your blood circulation.
6. ACUPRESSURE
Applying pressure on an acupuncture point on your wrist can sometimes have a positive effect on morning sickness. There are bands that you can buy which can help apply the pressure needed. You put them on first thing in the morning before you get out of bed, when you feel nauseous, press the button on each wrist in one second intervals.
Written by Chontelle Bonfiglio
