Feeding is not only a critical time for the baby, it’s also a critical time for mothers. There are many issues with feeding that mothers encounter that aren’t related to baby formula. In this article we will dissect it all.
Constipation
Constipation is a common problem many mothers-to-be experience, particularly in the first trimester. Rising levels of pregnancy hormones (progesterone) can relax the muscles in the bowel, causing constipation. It can become increasingly difficult for mothers to manage. Here are a number of tips to help parents through.
Tips:
Fight back with Fiber
Fiber-rich foods help you eliminate waste; aim for 25 to 35 grams each day. Check the food labels if you want, but there’s no need to do the math. Instead, focus on simply eating plenty of whole grain cereals and breads, legumes (edamame and chickpeas), fresh fruits and veggies (raw or lightly cooked — preferably with skin left on), and dried fruits. Going for the green can also help you go, in both the form of leafy green vegetables and kiwi fruit, which packs a potent laxative effect. Sample from this fiber-rich and tasty menu to get started.
Resist Refined Grains
Try to avoid refined grains (white bread, white rice, refined cereals and pasta) when you can; they tend to back things up.
Drink Fluid
Downing between eight and 10 8-ounce glasses of fluids (water, vegetable or fruit juice and broth) every day keeps solids moving through your digestive tract and makes your stool soft and easier to pass. You can also turn to warm liquids, including that health spa staple, hot water and lemon, to help stimulate peristalsis (the intestinal contractions that help you go). Prune juice is a good pick for truly tough cases, since it’s a mild laxative.
Don’t Max Out Mealtime
Big meals can overtax your digestive tract, leading to things getting backed up. Try eating six mini-meals a day rather than three large ones and you might also experience less gas and bloating.
Probiotics
The probiotic acidophilus, found in yogurts that contain active cultures, stimulate the intestinal bacteria to break down food better to keep things moving. You can also ask your practitioner to recommend a good probiotic supplement in capsules, chewables or powder form that can be added to smoothies.
Stay Away from Stimulant Laxatives
Not all laxatives and stool softeners (especially herbal or homemade ones) are safe for use during pregnancy. Talk to your practitioner before taking any constipation medication or remedy.
Talk to Doctor
Let your provider know if at-home measures aren’t getting things moving. She may recommend over-the-counter meds like docusate or polyethylene glycol.
So there you have it. Feeding isn’t easy for Mums, but it can be made easier if these steps are followed. For more information, visit Me and My Child here.