Acidity in pregnancy from the point of view of Ayurveda
Acidity or heartburn is a common complaint during pregnancy. The symptoms are usually a sharp burning sensation in the center of the chest. This condition is caused because of the reflux of the stomach acids into the food pipe or esophagus. Heartburn and gas formation are key symptoms in acidity.
The hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy relax the smooth muscles in the body. This results in slowing down of wavelike contractions of the stomach (to push the food & acid downwards). As the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach gets relaxed too, there is a reverse flow of gastric acids into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms which cause discomfort. During the third trimester of pregnancy, the growing fetus puts pressure on the stomach, slowing down digestion and forcing the reverse flow of acids into the food pipe, leading to acidity.
Acidity is known as “Amlapitta” in Ayurveda. Amla means sour, and Pitta is the fire Dosha, so “Amlapitta” occurs when the sourness of Pitta increases. When an aggravation of Pitta dosha is associated with an aggravation of Kapha, acid rises up into the esophagus.
From an Ayurvedic point of view, the best way to avoid acidity in pregnancy is to regulate the diet using a variety of natural remedies. Refrain from unhealthy products and follow a healthy lifestyle.
Ayurvedic tips for effective prevention and treatment of acidity in pregnancy
- Eat small and frequent meals
- Eat slowly and mindfully
- Don’t be hungry — hunger is the same way dangerous like spices, and it activates Vata dosha
- Avoid long gaps between meals
- Avoid heavy to digest food items, that lowers Agni (digestive fire)
- Do not overeat and avoid late-night dinners
- Do not eat solid food at least 2 hours before bedtime
- Drink a glass of milk before going to bed
- Avoid naps or lying down immediately after a meal
- Keep head elevated while sleeping, as in this posture, stomach acids will stay in the stomach because of gravity, help in better digestion
- Wear comfortable clothing, avoid tight clothing, especially around the waist
- Avoid stress as it can aggravate acidity
- Drink tea prepared by simmering 2-3 teaspoons of crushed fennel seeds in a cup of water for 5-8 minutes
- Coconut water
- Ginger early morning before food
- Include fennel, cardamom, cumin, dry ginger in your diet
- Avoid citric fruits and juices, tomatoes
- Avoid hot spices like mustard, chili, garlic
If the suggestions above do not help and the problem is frustrating, our eagles are ready to support you in this troubled moment of life.
Check the Ayurvedic treatment for other gynae diseases:
Infertility, Frigidity, Leucorrhoea, Menopause, Dysmenorrhoea, Amenorrhoea , Lower back pain, Cyst formation in Ovaries, Uterine fibroids ( polyps) , Vaginitis, Cervix and uterus infections, Uterus prolapse , Breast pain and lumps, Vaginal itching, Vaginal discharge, Hormonal disbalance, Oligomenorrhoea , Breastfeeding problems, Endometriosis, Pregnancy toxicosis, Miscarriage, Mastitis .
