Pregnancy And Constipation
A Concern – Pregnancy And Constipation
It is true that pregnancy and constipation tend to go hand-in-hand. It is frequently the result of a change in hormones brought about by the pregnancy. It is possible, however, to alleviate this problem. There are various methods that can help bring about relief from constipation. Before you start any form of treatment, however, talk to your health care professional first. He or she can help you make an informed decision on how to obtain relief from constipation without harming your health or the well-being of your baby.
The most common treatment for constipation is to alter the diet of the affected individual. Increase your intake of high fiber foods. These should include whole-grain breads, fresh fruit and lots of fibrous vegetables. Consider beets, papaya, strawberries, green beans, peas, zucchini, prunes and peaches. You may cook (but not overcook) the vegetables or fruit, make them into a puree for a spread or turn them into juices. Fruit and vegetable juices or even smoothies are a great way to enjoy your required amount of fiber. Alternatively, you can ground such substances into powder and sprinkle them onto other foods. Bran, rice and wheat fiber can come in powder form. Be sure to combine this increase of fiber with plenty of water – up to 8 glasses a day. This will improve your chances of finding a working remedy for constipation.
Exercise is also a way of improving the movement of food through the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Other therapies are providential in helping treat constipation. Consider massage therapy, yoga, acupuncture or NIA. Do, however, avoid such things as mineral oils, iron supplements and certain stool softeners or laxatives. Use various laxatives only if essential. If you take mineral oil for constipation, you can decrease the absorption of certain nutrients. It will deplete you of vitamins A, D, E and K. Talk to your doctor about the relationship between pregnancy and constipation before you decide to make any of these changes.
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